Gareth Collett was profoundly impacted by the IRA bombings in Hyde Park and Regent’s Park on July 20, 1982. The tragic events, which resulted in the deaths of 11 military personnel and seven horses, fueled his determination to pursue a career in bomb disposal. Reflecting on the incident, Gareth expressed shock and anger at the senseless loss of lives and animals, prompting him to contemplate a path of helping others in similar perilous situations.
Over the span of 34 years, Gareth, now a retired Brigadier, has undertaken significant roles in various war zones, including engaging in war crime investigations, conversing with the late Queen, and neutralizing 75,000 explosive devices to safeguard lives. Despite his commendable contributions, Gareth faced mental health challenges, including PTSD, stemming from his operational experiences.
Transitioning into a new chapter, Gareth, a proficient Arabic speaker residing in London, authored a fictional book titled “Blasted Religion,” drawing inspiration from his real-life bomb disposal career. This literary endeavor served as a therapeutic outlet for processing his past encounters. Contemplating his next writing project on his life story, Gareth humorously noted the Official Secrets Act as a potential hindrance.
Raised in a military-oriented family, with ancestors serving in World Wars, Gareth’s aspiration to join the Army diverged towards bomb disposal as a means to preserve life. His journey included specialized training in ordnance and bomb defusal techniques, emphasizing the critical thinking required to analyze and address potential threats effectively.
The practicality of bomb disposal starkly contrasts the dramatized portrayals on TV, as Gareth elucidated the complexities involved in identifying and neutralizing explosive devices. Training rigorously prepares individuals for high-stakes scenarios where split-second decisions can mean the difference between life and death.
Having served in conflict zones like Northern Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo, Gareth highlighted the unique challenges faced in each theater of war. Notably, his experiences in Iraq posed unpredictable threats compared to his familiarity with the IRA’s bomb-making patterns. His endeavors in forensic evidence collection aimed to trace the origins of terrorism financing, uncovering intricate networks behind such acts.
Despite his accolades, including a CBE for his valiant services in Afghanistan, Gareth’s journey was not devoid of personal struggles. Battling PTSD and grappling with the emotional toll of losing colleagues, he eventually sought support to address his mental health concerns. Through organizations like Help for Heroes, Gareth found solace in sharing his experiences with fellow veterans, fostering a sense of camaraderie and understanding.
Transitioning into academia, Gareth now imparts his expertise through teaching programs focused on ordnance, munitions, and explosives. His groundbreaking research linking bladder cancer to exposure to high explosives sheds light on the health risks faced by bomb disposal personnel, including his own battle with the disease and subsequent recovery.
In his ongoing pursuit to advocate for the well-being of veterans, Gareth’s efforts to raise awareness and support for those impacted by the hidden costs of war underscore his unwavering commitment to serving others, exemplifying resilience and dedication in the face of adversity.