Major Peter Harrison

British Army

Who are you and what do you do?

I am Major Peter Harrison. I work at Headquarters 160th (Welsh) Brigade, based in Brecon, which is the home of the Army in Wales. My key role is community engagement, which involves working alongside diverse organisations, with the aim of eliminating many of the negative myths about the Army. It is important for me to make these connections with people in order to have what can be difficult conversations about the Army. Being part of the Army is a privilege, so it is easy to talk honestly about an organisation I cherish and therefore one of my favourite topics of conversation. I have learnt a lot during my time in this new role, especially about the many diverse communities in Wales, which in turn allows me to inform my colleagues in the Army. It is very much a two-way street, to help increase representation in the Army and eliminate bias.

In 2018, after a 26-year battle, Ms Patti Flynn, finally won her campaign to ensure that Black and Brown service personnel were recognised and remembered. In honour of the sacrifice made by many to Britain, a plaque was unveiled near the Welsh National War Memorial in Alexandra Gardens. The British Army attended the ceremony, which was a lovely day celebrated by over 200 people. Ms Flynn lost her father and brothers to 2 World Wars; she was on a mission to make sure that they and others would be remembered.

Can you explain a little bit about your journey into the Army?

I was born in 1965, just 20 years after World War 2. I think my journey into the Army started from a young age, my father had served in World War 2, and he was a man of great principles around service and duty to our country. I am sure that he influenced my sense of duty as well as the limited media options at that time. Believe it or not, there were only 3 TV channels available on TV with many of the programmes reflected on the War in some ways, either through War movies, or Hollywood’s influence with Westerns, especially on a Saturday morning. Many of the games I played as a child revolved around being a soldier, so, I guess I was heavily influenced by all those things.

Why was this necessary, did the British Army not recognise the sacrifice and contribution from people of the Commonwealth before?

It is difficult for soldiers of my generation and those younger to understand the decisions made by those of earlier generations. Whilst the National War Memorial in Wales is there to recognise everyone that has made the ultimate sacrifice from those that have come from Wales, regardless of race, colour or religious beliefs, I was horrified to learn that soldiers from the Commonwealth haven’t always had the recognition they deserved. It was particularly upsetting to find out that if you were from the Commonwealth, you were not able to parade at many of the Victory Parades. I’m pleased to say this type of attitude would not be tolerated today. It was at the memorial service to remember those Commonwealth service personnel that had perished, that I first met Aunty Roma (Taylor), who told me that she had served in the Army Reserve for 25 years. I asked her if she had received her veteran’s badge, she had not, through my contacts I made some enquiries and very soon Aunty Roma had received her pin badge as a small token of recognition for her valuable service. Sadly, Roma is not alone, there are many veterans in a similar position. It is important to remember if anyone has served in any of the UK Armed Forces, for just one day, they are classed as a veteran, which enables them access to a lot of organisations that can help support veterans later in life. There is a support network available, which is why it is important to locate and identify veterans so that they can access this support, which many don’t think is available to them.

For more information go to Advice and support for veterans & ex-forces | Veterans' Gateway (veteransgateway.org.uk).

How can the Army continue to ensure that the service personal from all backgrounds are celebrated in memory and life?

We can continue to recognise the contributions of all service personnel, by honouring them at all events and supporting specific events such as the launch of Black History Cymru 365, which the British Army are proud Platinum Sponsors. 203 Hospital, based in Llandaff North, where Roma served, often host members of the Windrush Cymru elders at the Reserve Centre. The Windrush flag is flown there during Windrush week and there are wreaths laid at the Memorial Stone in Alexandra Gardens, on behalf of the Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force.

It is my vision to ensure the British Army is a Diverse organisation that embraces and celebrates the contributions of all who serve. I would particularly like to express my gratitude to those from the Commonwealth who have given and continue to give the UK unwavering loyalty. Without the contributions made by people from Africa, South East Asia and the Caribbean to the defence of the UK, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we currently have. -Major Peter Harrison.

Major Peter Harrison and Aunty Roma