In this episode, Pete shares his memories of VE Day, the surrender of German U-boats in the Irish Sea, and then his journey to the Far East, where he witnessed the surrender of Japanese forces on remote islands. Returning to the farm after the war, his story is one of quiet resilience and a life shaped by service, both in uniform and at home on the farm.

Chris also reflects on his time within the Personal Recovery Units, supporting soldiers recovering from illness and injury as they worked towards returning to operational service. Drawing on decades of experience across different branches of the armed forces and wider public service, including time in a police operational control room and service with the Coastguard, Chris shares some thoughtful and hard-earned lessons from a lifetime of service.

Roger also reflects on how the discipline and emergency-response skills he developed in the RAF helped him build a successful civilian career, becoming one of the country’s early paramedics. From his childhood memories to the experiences that shaped his working life, Roger offers thoughtful, deeply personal insight into a life defined by duty, compassion, and resilience.

From an unexpected discovery that sparked the idea, to a chance meeting in an Italian war cemetery, a moment that proved both moving and memorable - Matt reflects on his research and the courage of the men behind the medals, exploring what drove them, what connected them and why their stories still matter today.

Discover more about this landmark book at veteransvoices.uk/books.

But Peter’s story is about more than soldiering. A lifelong passion for cycling has taken him far beyond the roads of County Durham, across Ireland, through Austria and into the mountains of Europe. It was through cycling that he met his wife, Frances, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. In this episode, Peter reflects on family, service, and the freedom of life on two wheels.

After the war, Arthur trained as a teacher, eventually becoming a headmaster. Even in retirement, he continued helping others, this time supporting stroke survivors through his charity work. His story is a powerful reminder that service comes in many forms. Listen now to hear from a centenarian veteran whose life is a testament to compassion, courage and community.

By sharing the accounts of those who lived through it, this episode brings the history of VE Day to life, reminding us that behind every flag waved and every bell rung were real people, enduring great sacrifices. Their stories remind us of the resilience and strength that defined a generation. As we remember, let’s ensure we listen, honour and never forget.

John shares his memories of Berlin, where he played football in the Olympic Stadium, before being posted to Korea as a battalion signaller. He reflects on the challenges of war, including working under mortar fire and the daily demands of frontline service. He also looks back on his time in Egypt, his lifelong love of music and his return visits to Berlin and Korea decades later.

In this episode, Ian reflects on his journey from a young soldier to a war veteran, the realities of combat and how the injuries he sustained on Mount Longdon have caught up with him in later life. He also shares his thoughts on veteran care today and whether it’s time to rethink how the nation supports those who have served.

We trace Jazz’s journey from her home in Cornwall through rigorous military training to the battlefields of Afghanistan, uncovering the unbreakable bond between handler and dog and the bravery it takes to face danger every day. Then after an IED attack tragically ended her military career, Jazz's enduring passion for working dogs continues as she leads efforts in training the next generation of canine partnerships. This is a story of trust, courage and resilience in the face of immense adversity.