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Simon Weston

Simon Weston Falklands veteran who inspired a nation

Born:
1961
Place of Birth:
Nelson
Famous For:
Falklands veteran who inspired a nation
Biography:

The Falklands veteran who inspired the nation with his recovery from horrific injuries now devotes much of his time to charitable causes.

Joining the Welsh Guards in 1978, Weston saw active service in Berlin, Northern Ireland and Kenya before becoming part of the Falklands Task Force following the Argentine invasion of the islands.

He was aboard the Sir Galahad at Bluff Cove when it was hit by an Argentine missile, and escaped alive but with 49% burns, which left physical and psychological scars. Twenty two men from his platoon of thirty were killed.

Weston's story would become one of courage over adversity as his determination to recover from his horrific injuries inspired others.

Following his return from the Falklands, Weston's road to recovery resulted in celebrity status. He used his public profile to support a number of charitable causes and his efforts were recognised in 1992 with an OBE.

However, his main venture - the Weston Spirit charity set up in 1988 to help disadvantaged youngsters - closed in 2008 due to mounting debts.

Weston said he regretted the demise of the project, but paid tribute to its staff and supporters saying that in its 20 year history the charity had helped deliver life changing opportunities to 85,000 vulnerable young people throughout the UK.

Moment of Glory:
Received an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in 1992

your comments

Ron Tollerton from the Wirral
Simon, After reading your article in the Express, Monday 23rd March 2009, I was prompted to access your web site in order to make a comment and I was blown away after reading the tributes and notes left on the site. It is obvious that you are, rightly a very inspirational character. So back to the Falklands and Mr Brown’s forthcoming meeting to discuss the sovereignty of those islands. I’m not related to anyone who went there or anyone who lives there but I feel as strongly as anyone who fought for the right of those islanders to decide their own fate and if Mr Brown discusses their fate without first consulting them he will, I am sure, feel the wrath of the very many who feel as you do. The solution to the whole sorry state of affairs is for you to run for Prime Minister and bring some sanity to politics. Seriously I have never met you but I am so proud to share the same nationality. Well done Simon.

Joanne Collins, Creswell
Simon I think you are amazing. It was a real honour to have met you. Thank you for a memorable day.

Joy Sharp from Great Yarmouth
I think you are a very brave and lovely man and I can see you help a lot of people. I would love to meet you one day and shake your hand. I think you are so nice and brave and it would be an honour to meet you.

Joanne Collins
Simon you have had people that have been really rude and cruel towards you they should be ashamed because you deserve respect and kindness. Don't let other people pull you down with their comments because they are only jealous of what you have accomplished and achived well done to you.

Mia Dines
Simon is a true hero - I am doing a project at school at the moment and there were eight heroes to choose from. Well I chose Simon as he's a wonderful man and a true hero. I'm enjoying writing about you a lot - very interesting man.

Tammy from Southport
Lizzie I am so very jealous of you, You have such a WONDERFUL uncle. Simon, all those comments I have read are very touching.

Lizzie from Southport
Hi Uncle Simon again - I would just like to say that I can't wait for new year being with you and the family - tell Caitlin and everyone I said hi. The stories of you are amazing and everyone thinks that you are a true hero, so always remember that. Thank you very much for saving a lot of people's lives and always remember that you are true hero, oh yes before I forget the family are very proud of you as well. And we all love you.

Tom
I met Simon the day he walked into Gym 6 in Chessington. Joint forces remedial centre. The guys had been told not to make a fuss of him by PTI staff. We didnt need telling. He was one of us even though he was quartered in the medical buildings rather than down with us. Five minutes in the gym and he was leading a card game. The Pti's had no need to worry about his fellow patients reactions. He has left his mark on many ex service folk.

Lizzie from Southport
Hi Uncle Simon - I have read all the coments about you and they really mean something to me as you are my uncle. These coments are very touching and they inspire me very much. I am very proud of you for saving others at the Falklands war. Think about what everyone says because you are a true hero. Thank you for being here!

Hannah from Cornwall
I met Simon Weston in Britain's largest World War One Cemetery and shook him warmly by the hand during a GSCE History Battlefields Trip. While he spoke to us I found it very moving to be speaking to a hero. I thank him very much for his help in my exams and work.

Joanne Collins, Creswell, Worksop
I met Simon at Flambards in Cornwall. The kids had a photo taken with him. It was amazing. Simon is a kind hard working man - he wears his heart on sleeve, he always puts his charity work first. I can't wait to read his next book. I read Moving On and I couldn't put the book down. It gave people like Simon inspiration, by not giving up on life but to look forward.

Tina from Wiltshire
our country should be proud of him, I have read his books and can empathise fully with what he went through, as I have had a burns accident many years ago,and know what it takes to make you the person that you are now, simon you have proved what people can get through with support of a loving family i admire you, your courage, and what you have achieved.

Jane from Redditch
A man who truly continues to inspire a nation for all his work. I was opposite him on a tube a few years ago whilst in London. To this day I wish that I had told him how brave and motivational he has been to me. I'm saying it now.

Janet Forrester (Hultberg), Newport
My uncle and father were on the Sir Galahad with Simon. They were the only two brothers to meet up in the army when the Falklands war was on.

Janet Forrester (Hultberg), Newport
My uncle and father were on the Sir Galahad with Simon. They were the only two brothers to meet up in the army when the Falklands war was on.

Sonia Williams, Redditch, Worcestershire
Simon,I have immensely enjoyed reading your book Walking Tall. I wanted to read your book as part of a Counselling Diploma Course that I hope to start in Sept. I wanted to read about someone who had experienced life changes like yourself. You are a true inspiration to us all.

Ashlee Buckley
I think this is sly to Simon Weston - this should not have happened. Just think about his kids and wife - they most probably feel sorry for him. He looks great anyway, still the same old Simon Weston. At least he survived - that's the best part of it.

Helen Kent
Hi, I would like some information on Simon Weston and how he recovered and what were his care needs after his major life event. I need this information because I am doing a thing on him for my assignment at college in health and social care. Thanks

Arlene from New York
I am reading and learning all about this brave man, my friend in England has told me all about him. God Bless him.

Victoria Priestley from Bath
Simon is courageous. I never get any sense of 'the world owes me' when I read what he has to say. I am not the only person to feel there was a point to the Falklands War, but that there is nothing at all to be proud of in the current engagement. I would love to know what Simon thinks about Iraq, but his honourable streak will no doubt prevent him from speaking.

Fred Steele
I am afraid Simon has become a puppet for the Tories. I was saddened by the injuries he and the others from the Sir Galahad sustained, but he is no hero in the true sense of the word, his 'Active Service' is non existant. What active service was there in Berlin at the time he was there? The NI conflict was as good as over when he was there, Kenya? And in the Falklands we all know he saw no 'action' ! I have no doubt the compensation he received from the Tory government were no better than he would of got today. It is NOT a question of our soldiers not getting enough that is the issue!The Marine who was in the News today may not have had such a large payout as the RAF lady, but on top of his lump sum he will get an additional monthly sum for the rest of his life...She got a 'one-off' payment. Simon, old lad, you are being used by the Tories for propaganda.

Katie Summers, Wednesbuey
I am realy grateful that mine got chosen out because I have met Simon Weston in person and he was amazing but i am so proud that he has chosen mine and many others to go on the site. Thank you.

Katrina Ascott, Bampton
I would like to mention the help that Simon has given my godson Martyn Compton. Martyn was severely burnt in Afghanistan in 2006. Simon has been fighting for more compensation. Martyn has been awarded £98,000 for his burns and a woman was awarded £484,000 for repetitive strain injury. Simon is emphasising the unfairness of this. Thank you Simon.

Katie, Wednesbury
Simon Weston visited Wood Green High School and I and many others got the chance to visit the hero himself. Personally I thought he was amazing - I was interested in his life story and he's very lucky that he is able to tell the tale of his fasenating story. He's a amazing person - I know that he's my hero and always will be. I hope that other people have the chance to meet this brilliant person.

Mike Saint, Birmingham
Whilst I originally thought that Simon was using his fame for his own gain in the early years, he has for a long time now done a huge amount for charity. I would be happy for him to recieve further recognition for his work.I also urge people to give Peter Holdgate some award for his iconic "The Yomper" photo, used across the media to show justice and patriotism for the war.

Jack, Paderborn, Germany
Simon is a very admirable man and has shown the world that you don't have to be perfect on the outside to achieve wonderful feats, but just to have that light in your heart to follow through with your dreams.

Thomas from Paderborn, Germany
We are currnetly doing a biography on Simon Weston as part of our Year 8 Literacy work and I think that he is very brave and that his immense courage could inspire us all.

Janet Madron from Cornwall
I have admired Simon for his courage having followed his story from the Falklands war.I still regret not speaking to him on Paddington station and telling him how great I think he is. What an inspiration he has been.

Lynda from Aberdeen
I find it inspiring that Simon Weston, even through all his own problems and traumas, still managed to put others first and start up a charity to help other disadvantaged people. Many in his position would have been totally self absorbed. He is one of the few true heroes in the world today.

Veda McLaren, Suffield, Alberta, Canada
I followed Simon's story for a couple of years after the war and only now caught up with him again. What a wonderful human being. I am so proud of what he is doing. He truly is an inspiration to the human race. Its too bad we all can't come to to terms with what life hands us and go on as he has done.

Louis, age 12 from East Yorkshire
Simon Weston is a true hero im doing about him at school for a aspirational person for my R.S. project.

Agnes Thomas, Port Talbot
To Bob from Norfolk - it's you Sir who needs to do everyone a favour and straighten a bitter mind. Simon has done and continues to do wonderful work for under privileged people, while often being ridiculed for his looks by ignorant people. Have you ever heard the saying "Looks are only skin deep, but ugliness goes straight to the bone"? Believe me it's true, I've met quite a few.

Mat from Abingdon
This man is a hero!!!! Will always be!!

Alex Yakovlev, Gunwharf, age:11
I think that Simon Weston was very brave during the war and also very luky! And remember everyone, it never matters what someone looks like.

David Clarke, York
I have felt truly inspired by Simon's courage both mental and physical. He truly underlines the commitment that our British men and women go through to do their jobs to secure a more peacful world. I was able to focus more on what is inportant in life and what is simply trivial. We all have challenges mental and physical. Simon reminded me how they can be so traumatic. Thank you for coming to York. You made me think again. Respect!

Corinna Falcon, Christchurch, New Zealand
Read Simon's story, MANY years ago when I was a teen, and was impressed by what a figher he was. Wanted to read the book again..

Stuart Newman, Northamptonshire
Simon Weston, I believe, is one of the most inspirational people I have read about. I have read his autobiography twice, once when I was about 14 and again 3 months ago.He didn't want the press coverage of his life, but he used it for the good not for himself but for the disavantaged people who without his and his fellow charity members would not enjoy a new look at life. If he is to be critised for that, then what a sad and selfish world we live in.

Emily Moon
He is a true hero. He is proof that no matter what happens in life there can always be a positive outlook. People like him are the heroes, not just football players and other "celebrites" that we have today. He has a heart of gold.

Roy Burton, Isle of Wight
If anyone deserves to be knighted it is Simon Weston. It is not just how he fought back against his horrific injuries, but that the fact that he has now dedicated his life to helping others. With facial injuries like Simon's most of us would have hidden well away from the public gaze. Forget all the prancing footballers, and the posturing actors, and forget all those businessmen who pour vast sums of money into the political party coffers - It is Simon Weston who should be given a knighthood.

Bob, Norfolk
I am a Falklands veteran and I am disgusted at the way this man has "milked" his story over the years. Okay, sympathy for his injuries but can you see mine mentally? The answer is no. Did he see any action before the Galahad was bombed? Sorry mate, wrong place at the wrong time. Get on with it like the rest of us and do away with the "celeb" bit. Sir Simon!!! Do me a favour.

Stewart Nicol
You and your poor mates guaranteed Thatcher another five years in power!

Tammie Stanley from Witney, Oxfordshire
Simon is my hero ... he has helped many people including me. He has done this by showing people to just hold your head up high and live your life no matter what it throws at you. He is great.

John Reeves from Orpington, Kent
He is an amazing man and truly deserves to be knighted.

David Forster, Murton, Co Durham
Simon Weston is a true British hero, he deserves to be decorated as highly as possible. He deserves every accolade going, his work for charity is amazing. What Simon has gone through should serve as inspiration for everyone the world over, Simon could have chosen to just wallow in self pity, but he didn't. He laid his ghosts to rest, he moved on with his life and accepted what happened ... offer Sir Simon his long overdue knighthood for his selfless, tireless work.

Tammie Stanley, Witney, Oxfordshire
Simon Weston is one of the most extraordinary people I have come across in my life ... I also am a burns survivor, from the age of just two months. I am now 32 (nearly) and admire all that Simon has done for many people, bringing hope to their lives, which he has done for me - and that's just by reading his books and seeing him on the TV. Thanks Simon, you are great.

Lee, Tidworth, Wiltshire
I am trying to teach my kids that a true hero is not some overpaid pretty boy kicking a football about for England,(and ultimately losing!), but someone like Simon, who did his job for his country when needed, and paid a terrible price. God bless you, Simon. A true inspiration.

Pat Lintott, Sheffield
I have just been diagnosed with tempral bone cancer and the life saving (hopefully one in three chance) op will leave me quite disfigured. As a young 62 year old I was obviously concerned yet my mind went almost immediately to your courage and I thank God for putting you on this earth as a role model for us all. Even after all this time you are positively touching lives and instilling us with courage and hope. Thank you.

Jack Mantell, Bridgend
I think you are really brave - you are a living legend.

Martin Delandy, Solihull West Midlands
Life goes on and you deserve to have a long and full one. You are an inspiration to us all and I feel that you are the rock for many people. God Bless you Simon and keep up the good work.

Dom, Abergavenny
Simon is a brave man ... and I salute him.

Tom from Glasgow
I learned about you Simon in P5 as part of our Nelsons skills. You deserve to be a millionaire!!! You are so brave - you are such a good role model to everybody, no matter how big or small they are.

Dai Rees from Maesteg
An inspiration to everyone. Proud to be British when you see someone like Simon. Keep up the good work mate.

Neil Barnsley from Rotherham
What a great guy. OBE's are given out to anyone these days for doing less in a lifetime than Simon does in a week. When will this man receive his knighthood?

John Frith, Newport
I'm a ex-fireman who suffers with post-traumatic stress disorder. I watched his program about his "black dog" as he calls it. Would love to talk to this man - his guts have helped me start to get better.

Vicky Hansford from Chorley
We are studing you in Holy Cross High and I think you are fantastic for forgiving Carlos.

Kayleigh Ward from Telford
We are learning about your experiences. You are absolutely amazing - I am learning all about you and what you have been through in RE. I think you are amazing and so do my class mates. I wish you would visit my school - I would love to meet such a great man.

Tom Taylor, 14, Ercall Wood
I think that he is a brave man to put up with his life. He is one of my heroes. I would like to go in to the RAF to help people as he did. I go to ATC - we saw him the other day.

Brett Howard, 13, Ercall Wood
Simon is a hero - he turned away from drink and he decided to turn his life around to help others to save their lives. Simon should be awarded more than a medal - he is more than a hero. Simon is a icon.

Nathan, 13, Telford
His story has made me think a lot about other people and their lives.

Jess from Wigan
He's a terrific guy and an inspiration to us all.

Bethani Williams, from Bolton
I think that Simon Weston is a role model to everyone. He went through loads in his life but he will not sit by and let that put him down! He's determined to help others even before himself. He is a man dedicated to others and helping. In my school we have been studying him and his story is really interesting. I found it so great to know what he went through - his story was truly moving. I find it amazing every single day to learn more about his life. Simon Weston is a hero to many but to me he's a role model of how to live xxxx

Angharad Denise Devereux from Swansea
I think Simon is an incredible man and a role model to us all. I have chosen to do a project on him as my number one Welsh hero for our school Eisteddfod. I am honoured to learn more about his life and the amazing things Simon has done. He is truly an incredible human being!

Saffron Cohen, Portsmouth
I love what Simon Weston has done for charity. In school I said he was my role model. I was burnt when I was 4 years old and now I'm nine I understand more about Simon.

Tudor Young, Cardiff
What a positive attitude. He is inspirational.

Elle Bloor from Gosport
He is an inspiration to children of all ages.

Nicola Erskine, northeast
I think that Simon Weston is a very brave man - I don't know how he he did it. I think that he has had a great inspiration to the world and charities - he is a great guy.

Harry
I think that Simon Weston has done the right think working for charity. Helping people less fortunate than ourselves is a very good thing. He sacrificed so much. He's a good man. We should look at his example and try to help others just like him.

Amie-Lea, Newcastle, aged 13
I have been studing you for a project and i'm currently in year 9 and I found you very interesting. I also studied you in year 5 when I was very young and didn't quite understand what had happened. But now my eyes have opened and I think you have changed the way I think now. I now understand about the whole process - you have inspired me and you are my idol. Thank you for making my world a better place thanks :) I will be continuing my research on you - good luck in the future xx

Pete from London
I don't know Simon but the courage he has shown in the face of adversity and to pull through strong with the support of the public, family and friends is a credit to everyone, and people should take heed at what can be accomplished when people care. Thank you for showing us all the courage that you have.

Kev Hughes, Monmouth
Simon - about 1991 you visited the Aldershot fun run. I was part of a papier mache dragon. You inspired me then and still do today - your hard work and relentless bravery is a lesson to all of us to stop complaining and get on with what we have. All the best, Welshman!

Ash Butler from Marsham
People should learn from this inspiring man. He's Great!!!!

James Stott
Just wanting to say about your courage ... bloody marvellous, well done sir.

Simon from Bolton
Simon known of you for a long time but just read your book and asked my grandad if he knew you. He said yes I do, he's the one person I'd like to meet and shake his hand. Good on you mate - you're a true British hero.

Steven Slevin, Glasgow
Simon is a national hero, an inspiration to all.

Ian Borrows from Liverpool
I have known Simon since 1988 because of the Weston Spirit. Simon is and always will be an inspiration to myself and anyone who has ever known him.

Jimmy Price, Narberth
No soldier, no matter how brave, ever fought for his country, only his masters. Simon's views are approved by the authorities.

Peter Martin, Portsmouth
I watched the task force leave from Southsea in 1982 and watched the news everyday. When I saw Simon Weston on TV for the first time I realised how real the Falklands war was and how brave our boys had been. Simon, you are amazing because you showed us all as a nation how to move forward with all the good things you have done since with your life. I admire you and may you continue for many more years.

Derek Connor, Northampton
I was in the Union Jack club in London, with my friend Paul Grant. It was our reunion after 28 years. Paul went to the bar & bought Simon over to sit & drink with. We spent an hour or so just chatting about various things. I have had Cancer of the face, so I know some of the pain Simon must of gone through, but only some. I feel humbled & yet proud to have met him, there is more to this story, but I will just say, "Simon you are a gentleman", and I count you among my friends.

CHRIS WEST
simon is a inspiration to us all, he is a very brave man simon a man to take youer hat off to. i wish you all the best.

alex wood green
simon is a brave man who desevrves a very happy life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Good luck to him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Emily Round, North Hinksey
I think Simon is one amazing man. We have just learnt about him in assembly. You rock Simon!!

niall crane
I think simon is a very brave man

Nathan from Millfield High School
I think Simon is an inspiration to us all.

Horatio from Chessington
Simon Weston. My hero; my inspiration. He is the wind beneath my wings, the Sonny to my Cher. Mr. Weston is quite frankly a superior human being to most of us. One Weston. One Vision.

Charlie - Caerphilly
Ignore David Wales's comments. Yes a lot of men dies in the Falklands but it is what you have done since that sets you apart. You are an inspiration Simon. You help the rest of us put our problems in to perspective.

David Davies, Tonypandy
I have just watched a Programme about Simon on BBC Wales and if anyone deserves a knighthood it should be Simon. He has overcome tremendous injuries and has gone on to do magnificent work for young people through the Weston Experience. When you hear the New Year's Honours list of pop stars and minor celebrities getting honours it makes me feel ashamed.

North Hinksey Football Girls!!!
We think Simon is a special man, no matter what he looks like. He must have been very brave for what he did and especially for making it through all those operations.

connor anderton
good man is what he is i know him

Janet Hultberg, USA
My brother Roger was on the same ship as Simon when it got hit, first battalion Welsh Guards.

Agnes Thomas, Port Talbot
To Andrew Farrer - I met Simon Weston on my 60th birthday, it was the most wonderful birthday present of my life. I had followed his life and survival from the Sir Galahad at Bluff Cove to this day. He is a charismatic man, but so very humble. I was overwhelmed yet set at ease so quickly. I looked into his eyes and at a face that had borne so much suffering and saw such a shining example of courage and goodness. It was truly a wonderful day and yes my one and only hero.

Professor Ray - History department at Oxford Uni.
I think that any one that was able and brave enough to fight in that battle- any, for that fact- was a brave being. We at Oxford University annually have a "gig" celebrating the return of the brave ones. We will have one this year in May,16, and we would be honoured if a few volunteers would join us. Perfectly punctually, of course! Oh, and hello to Doc. Bonner as he was a friend of the afore-mentioned Mr.Weston!!

jodie
we are doing about him in r.e and i think he's very lucky and kind for forgiving the man who did this to him good luck and congratulations on becoming a better man and leaving your past behind and starting a new better life it dosen't matter whats on the outside just the inside and he's great !

Jamie Ray
Amazing achievment to have lived and aided others. In this cold hard world we need people like SIMON WESTON to show us that not all human beings are cruel and selfish to the point were they would kill others. Have a very happy life.

Doc Bonner
Exactly what I say!

peter sheppard ercall wood
he is an amazing man to have survived and done all the good things that he does

Jodie Bartlett age 14
He is very lucky for not dieing and surviving this accident hope you ave a good life

Jaymie-lee Ellams age 14
he is a very brave man for going into the army, he is a very lucky man to have survived this tragic accident, and we all hope you have a very happy and good life! jay 14 xxxx

anthony prothoroe
Hi he is a very lucky man and good luck to the rest of his life.

Dr William-Keith Bonner, Aylsham
What an amazing man!

Jak Bonner Aylsham,Norfolk
He was just sooooo brave I met him at camp and he was such a better person than me.

jay.aldridge
he is a very brave man and good luck to the rest of his life

Emma Laddiman from Norwich
WOOOOW!! what an amazing man!!!! we are gonna learn about him in english!!

anna
wow brave dude

Rach Hogg from Erpingham Norfolk
wow he's just amazing

Andy Wilson REME Staffs
I met Simon in Woolwich military hospital, where I was a 19 year old fellow patient, in 1992. Before that I had only seen him on the TV and knew very little about him. I was there to have surgery on my nose due to my hairlip. I was very self conscious and hopelessly shy. We ended up sat talking over a cup of tea for well over an hour, about our experiences in life as facially disfigured people. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Simon for taking the time to talk to me - that chance meeting really helped to turn my life around. I have been able to take a great strength from what he said to me. Thank you Simon, you truly are a hero to me.

Beth
im only 16 and i had never really known wheat happened in the falklands. this book has inspired me even though some may say he did no more then others i believe he did ... he survived which many other men didn't Simon's autobiography has inspired me so much so that i go in the army next year.

david wales
he did no more then anyone else in the falklands. at least he came back alive and was able to have a wife and children. my brother will never have that joy - an ex-soldier's brother that was also in the falklands doing his job for queen and country.

michelle in spain
well done simon. just reading about the french surgeon and the worlds first face transplant, but you are way above and beyond that, dont change. you have done so much good, you have helped so many people, we love you just the way you are. xxx

AD
he was a nice bloke

Ruthie from Bedfordshire
Absolutely a fab guy, he's inspired us all.

Ashleigh from Bedfordshire
Simon Weston is a truly remarkable character someone to aspire to being like

Ioan Evans
Simom was very brave going to war.I am going to pick him for my school biography homework. Ioan Evans Age 9

jazmin
hi, the bravest man alive. i hope you're doing ok now. love, jazzy.

Jon Wright from Doncaster
Simon is the true example of bravery. Having overcome such adversary which many of us would have succumbed to, he has gone on to much greater things with his charity work. He is a gentleman, hero and inspiration to us all. Keep up the good work Simon.

Geraldine Gaskell from Newton Abbot, Devon
Simon Weston is an inspiration to everybody. He is my hero, I stand Simon right next to Winston Churchill. He is everything that is the best about this country. He has overcome the worst that anyone should have to go through, and come through with courage and determination.

hash, slough, 17
ive met him twice and believe he is an extraordinary guy and extremely down to earth. i am involved in the weston spirit scheme and has benefited me tremendously

A.R.Lewis, Ex C.S.M. Welsh Guards
A poem respecting the life of a Welsh Guardsman.

The Weston Spirit

The Weston spirit, a heart of gold, a crinkled chip
Forged together in a granite block.
Born from adversity and untold misery.
From the depths of dispair, to fulfillment of life
Bringing hope and purpose to all in need.

We remember the scenes of the ship on fire
The billowing smoke, the cries of the wounded.
The gallant efforts of rescue crews, and paramedics.
The hospital ship,doctors, nurses, patients
The television cameras revealing all
We could see, but not feel the overpowering pain.

In hospital wards we saw your distress
Heard your cries as you fought to control it
The months of operations following each other
Until at last you started to live again.
Mother, family, friends, helping to remould you
To pick you up from the depths of despair
Hiding their grief beneath stern remarks.

Then at last you started to live again
To show us the way we all should go
The Weston spirit was born - grew tall
And you took your place with the good and the great.
Proud of being a Guardsman, your family, your Mother
Who now have to share you with us all.
For the Country claims you for one of its own.

NB The phrase a crinkled chip was made by Simon himself.

Drakko from Essex
I think that Simon is an influence to everyone, and he is one of my many heroes in life.

Andrew Farrar Shepshed Leicestershire
Simon you are an ispartion to us all if only people would follow your lead. I remember the falklands war and lost a good freind because of it. I watched the television documentaries of your home coming and the pain you went through. Sometimes when I find life hard I stop and think of you and the courage that you showed us all, it makes one realise that perhaps my plight is not that hard after all compared to yours. There are few in this life I want to meet but you are top of the list and hopefully we may meet one day, because if it wasnt for gentlemen like you who gave your all the world would be a terrible place. Keep up the good work you do and I wish you and your family all the best in the world for peace and future happiness. One day just one day I may shake you by the hand and look the bravest man I nkow in the face. Thanks Simon in my mind your a hero

Harry Bleasdale Seaham
Im doing an R.E project at the moment on Simon and i have realised that this man is probably the bravest man that i have ever heard of. He has gave up his life to help others when he could have concentrated on himself and i admire him for that.

rebecca parry from gainsborough
he was so lucky well done to him

Tamar Dyer from Gloucestershire
I am doing my R.S project on Simon Weston, because I found it interesting and have been finding out more! Tamar Dyer aged 11

Gary hines
This man should have a statue in our town to show his bravery, i love this man

jake age 12 from forest of dean
that was really herioc. and its like he's an ordinary 25 yr old man, just like someone you might know, and he wasn't anyone extrordinary at the time, but then he becomes a true hero, who didn't say"oh look at me my friends have died feel sorry for me" and then not do anything for the rest of his life. he helps al kinds of charitys nowadays and obviosly is brave enough to be called a true hero

Rachel from Essex
A great man and an inspiration to all of those alive today.

oliver chalk from dorset
very brave man

A teacher in the North- West
A person to look up to. I will be using Mr Weston`s story in assembly to show our junior children what happens when you never give up! What you can achieve with courage and determination. An inspiration to all. I still remember the documentary of his return from the Falklands all those years ago.

Diane Barron Oregon USA
Simon is an inspiration to us all.There's always light at the end of the tunnel.

Charlene from N.Warks
I think Simon is very brave. I'v know about him since I was little as my step dad served in the Royal Navy in the Falkland War with him. He was the pilot of one of the Sea Kings. I wish Mr Weston all the best and hope he can help others x.

Dr. L J Connolly
Just fantastic.

Sam Smith from Cwmbran
I think he's a great inspiration to all of us. I have only come on this website because we are writing about Welsh heroes in English so I choose Simon.

Rog from Pontypridd
From troubled teenager to exemplary hero, Simon has grown in stature since his days as a Nelson / Trelewis lad. His courage and his charitable works make him a man to look up to and someone that South Wales can be justifiably proud of.

Dinah Malone, age 6, Westcliff-on-Sea
I hope you are well and getting better. I hope that you are happy with your new life.

Dinah Malone age 6 from Westcliff, Essex
How is your life now? I hope you will be better and happy. I hope people won't laugh at your scars. My mum has got one but you can't see it because it is on her side. You did well. love Dinah x

Keira from Bedford
The bravest man alive. Everyone should follow in his footsteps and risk their lives for others.

David Lewis in Hull
I was at the hospital at the time,only got a brief glimpse. Those injuries were quite serious. Very gallant fellow.

Diane Houldsworth from York
God Bless him. Met him yesterday in York. Unassuming and a gentleman - a tribute to the bravery of man and supported by a wonderful family.

Chris Marks from Launceston
A selflessly courageous man who would put himself out for anyone and he was obviously a christian man who will be a wealthy man in the sight of God.

Wendy Dorrington from Stoke on Trent
I met Simon in Cardiff after the Scotland-Wales cup match (rugby). I felt sorry for him in a way, he was surrounded by 'fans'. I desperately wanted to meet him and tell him how he inspires my year 6 pupils in our RE unit on Heroes, but we were rudely interrupted by someone who just HAD to have her photo taken with him there and then. He is a lovely, down to earth man, definitely a hero!!

Barbara Pitts of Paignton in Devon
I met Simon at a conference in Bournemouth. What a guy! It's no wonder that he has left a lasting impression on so many people. His irrepressible humour, infectious enthusiasm and immediately engaging personality is remarkable. I feel honoured to have met him.

Karl Bardsley from Oldham
Why hasn't Simon got a knighthood? What he's done - this is the least he deserves.

Victoria Turner from Manchester
I think Simon Weston is a fantastic man and he is so brave - a real icon for his children!

Hannah Davies from Llanbradach
Having read all of Simon's truly amazing books, I think he is an exceptional man with many great qualities in life. He is definitely someone we can all look up to and learn a lot from, with his great outlook on life no matter what happens.

Daniel Thurgood from Camborne, Cornwall
I met Simon at the Regal cinema in Redruth. He travelled down to give a speech to 150 year-nines from the three local secondary schools. I met him afterwards and I believe he is an incredible man. Having gone through what he has gone through, he has made a good life for himself. He is a great role model and an excellent example that no matter what happens to you in life, there is always something to be made out of life.

Terri Chapple from Camborne, Cornwall
He is a truly amazing guy. After what he has been through, it's amazing and he is living proof that no matter what happens, good things can come from it. His speech is a moving inspirational one which makes a connection with everyone who listens to it. I really admire him for being able to stand in a huge area and tell the story of his life and to lots of people.

Hannah Breeze, aged 9
A True Hero

His mother's pride, his mother's joy,
In Nelson grew this hero boy,
He loved to play with a rugby ball,
And grew to be a soldier tall.

The Captain said we're off to war!
The ship lies waiting at the shore,
The Sir Galahad in San Carlos lay,
Where bombs fell that fateful day.

His body burnt, face and head,
He woke up in a hospital bed,
His friends were dead, he barely alive,
Only his will let him survive.

Like the medals on his chest he bears,
The scars upon his face he wears.
His appearance doesn't matter to him,
Because that's the way in life to win.

His mother's pride, his mother's joy,
This hero is no longer boy,
He may not look just like his brothers,
But he changed his life to help others.

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