Antony “Coops” Cooper and David Jack Plant, friends from the 1st Battalion of The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, were on patrol in Afghanistan when their lives changed forever. In July 2010, Coops stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in the loss of his legs, most of his fingers, an eye, and a severe brain injury. Just three minutes later, David also stood on an IED, losing both his legs. The two were airlifted to safety, starting a journey of rehabilitation and recovery that continues to this day.
To mark this year’s Remembrance and poppy campaign, the two men reunited after over a decade apart to discuss the impact that moment had on their lives and the support they received from the Royal British Legion. While in early recovery, they supported each other, but David left for Spain after 18 months of rehabilitation in Headley Court. He was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and feeling unable to cope with what had happened. He described sinking into a dark place, eventually attempting to take his own life. However, the Royal British Legion was there to intervene, sending support workers to take him to their place in Murcia and helping him to start rebuilding his life.
The Royal British Legion continued to assist David in moving to a new home in Cumbria, installing adaptations so he could live independently. They also purchased a special handcycle, allowing him to venture outside and enjoy the Cumbrian Hills. Coops also spoke highly of the Legion’s support, as they funded home adaptations and a handcycle for him too.
This year’s poppy campaign aims to raise awareness of the deep mental scars of war. Coops and David’s reunion highlights the importance of support for veterans in rebuilding their lives. They may have grown apart over the years, but both men are looking forward to the future, sharing the common bond of their experience. As Coops put it, “they injured us, but they haven’t got us. You know? We’re still here, aren’t we.
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