Decorated RAF veteran takes up new role with Erskine

Erskine, Scotland’s leading veterans charity, has appointed decorated RAF veteran Roy Geddes MC as Regional Manager for its Veterans Activity Centres across the country.

Roy, 55, has a distinguished record of service. He was awarded the Military Cross for bravery and leadership under fire during the 2012 Taliban raid on Camp Bastion in Afghanistan’s Helmand province. Despite being wounded, he successfully led his men to safety before returning to re-engage with the enemy in the six-hour battle – an experience later shared in his book Into The Darkness: Contact Right.

Since leaving the RAF full-time, Roy has continued to serve the community in Moray, working in council roles focused on community development and refugee resettlement. He also remains a Warrant Officer in the RAF Reserve.

Erskine, which has been supporting veterans since 1916, currently operates Activity Centres in Bishopton and Forres. The hubs offer veterans of all ages a place to meet, take part in sport, arts, recreation and well-being activities, and build new friendships. The charity has plans to expand the model further across Scotland after the success of the Forres centre, which has welcomed more than 500 members since opening in December.

Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, Erskine Chief Executive, said: “Roy has lived experience of the Armed Forces, proven leadership under extraordinary circumstances, and a deep commitment to community service. His appointment strengthens the bridge between Erskine’s frontline care and the growing veteran community we support.”

Roy added: “I’m honoured to join Erskine at such a vital time for the veteran community. The charity provides not only care, but purpose and belonging for veterans of all ages. I look forward to working with the team and our veterans to build on the fantastic foundation already in place.”

Each year Erskine supports around 1,000 ex-Service men and women through its care homes, Veterans Village in Bishopton, and community-based services.

Photo: Decorated RAF veteran Roy Geddes MC, newly appointed Regional Manager for Erskine’s Veterans Activity Centres

Photo: Roy Geddes, Debs Dickson and Davie Grant