Story of Bravery – The Simon Weston Saga

Have you ever wondered what it takes to overcome life’s toughest challenges? Simon Weston, a true hero, faced unimaginable adversity during the Falklands War. His story is one of courage, strength, and unwavering determination. In this saga, we’ll explore how Simon rose above the ashes, proving that resilience knows no bounds. Get ready to be inspired!

Birth, Parents, and Education

Simon Weston is a Welsh veteran known for his bravery and resilience in recovering from severe burn injuries sustained during the Falklands War. He was born on August 8, 1961 at the Caerphilly District Miners Hospital in Caerphilly, Wales.

His mother, Pauline, and adoptive father, known as “Lofty”, played significant roles in his upbringing.

Interestingly, Simon’s biological father, David Weston, also served in the Royal Air Force alongside his mother.

Simon spent his childhood in Singapore and at the RAF Hospital Nocton Hall in Lincolnshire before returning to his hometown of Nelson, Wales around the age of six or seven.

He has one elder sister, Helen, and three stepbrothers.

At 14, Simon received a police caution for being a passenger in a stolen car driven by older friends. His mother insisted he join the Welsh Guards at 16, which led him on a journey from Berlin to Northern Ireland and eventually to the Falkland Islands.

Career

Falklands War (1982)

Simon was aboard the RFA Sir Galahad, a ship near the Falkland Islands. On June 8, 1982, during the Bluff Cove Air Attacks, Argentine Skyhawk fighters bombed and set the Sir Galahad on fire.

The ship carried ammunition, phosphorus bombs, and fuel. Tragically, 22 out of Simon’s platoon of 30 men lost their lives that day.

The Welsh Guards suffered a total of 48 deaths and 97 injuries aboard the ship.

Severe Burn Injuries

Simon survived, but he suffered severe burns to 46% of his body. His face was barely recognizable due to the burns.

When he was wheeled into the transit hospital at RAF Lyneham, his own mother didn’t recognize him at first. The journey to recovery was long and challenging.

Simon endured over 96 major operations to reconstruct his face and body. Skin grafts from his shoulders helped create eyelids, and he faced both physical and psychological trauma.

Simon faced psychological trauma, struggled with heavy drinking, and even contemplated suicide. However, he persevered, redefining his role in life. His message is one of achievement, triumph, and seizing the moment.

Philanthropy

The Scar Free Foundation

Simon is the Lead Ambassador of Scar Free Foundation, a charity focused on medical research. The organization’s goal is to fund research on scar-free healing in order to enhance the quality of life for individuals impacted by disfigurements.

Weston Spirit

In 1988, Simon co-founded the national youth charity called Weston Spirit. After relocating to Liverpool, he co-founded this organization together with Paul Oginsky and Ben Harrison. The main goal of the charity is to empower young individuals by offering them guidance, support, and opportunities for personal development.

Awards and Recognition

Simon Weston has received notable awards and recognition:

• In 1992, he received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for his devoted philanthropy.
• In 2002, Simon was given the Freedom of the City of Liverpool for his courageous actions and charitable efforts in the area.
• He was recognized as one of the top 100 Welsh Heroes in 2004.
• In 2014, a survey conducted by Freud Communications named Simon the Nation’s Favourite Hero in the UK.
• Simon Weston received the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) award. He was honored for his charitable work. This recognition happened in 2016

Family

Simon Weston has a close-knit family and continues to make a difference. He is married to Lucy, and they have three children: James, Stuart, and Caitlin. He serves as the Military Ambassador for the London Mint Office, promoting commemorative coins and medals.

Current Position

Simon now has his own security company in South Wales. He’s also a director at Zappawoo, which is the parent company of a start-up called Zap Escapes. Zap Escapes focuses on organizing holidays for people who have specific accessibility needs.

BBC shows related to Simon Weston

“Simon’s War” (1983)

This documentary follows Simon’s life after he sustained 46% burns during the Falklands War. It shows how he coped with disfiguring facial injuries and psychological scars. The program aired on April 6, 1983 on BBC.

“Witness History: Surviving the Falklands War”

In this BBC World Service segment, Simon shares his firsthand account of surviving the Argentine attack on the RFA Sir Galahad in 1982.

“The People’s Portrait” (2014)

Fiona Bruce follows Simon Weston as his portrait is painted by artist Nicky Philipps. The show aired on BBC One Scotland HD, Wales HD, and was available in Scotland and Wales only.

Social Media Presence

Simon Weston has an Instagram account simonweston_cbe with 2696 followers. He also has an X account @SimonWestonCBE with 2080 followers. Simon Weston also has a website and you can check that out to know the latest news about him.

Bottom Line

Simon Weston, known for his bravery and resilience, has overcome immense challenges following severe burns in the Falklands War. His journey from adversity to advocacy highlights the power of determination and the human spirit.