In this episode of Veterans Voices UK, we revisit one of the most extraordinary moments of the First World War, the Christmas Truce of 1914. When amid the bitter cold, the mud-filled trenches and the horrors of war, soldiers from opposing sides laid down their weapons to share an unexpected and fleeting moment of peace.

This episode brings that remarkable story to life through the words of those who witnessed it. We’ll hear letters written by soldiers describing the carols sung, the gifts exchanged, and the humanity that emerged in the midst of unimaginable hardship. Their voices offer us a glimpse into a unique moment in our history, a moment when humanity and hope rose above the chaos of war, even if only for a brief moment.

In this episode, I’m joined by Valentine Howard, a 94-year-old veteran whose life and experiences span almost a century. Valentine’s story reaches back to World War One, as he shares memories of his father and uncle who served at the Battle of the Somme in 1916. Then growing up in County Durham in the 1930s, Valentine recounts his early life, school days and the path that led him to defer his National Service in the early 1950s.

His journey takes us to Egypt, where Valentine served in the challenging years following World War Two. He recalls the remote desert, including one near-miss after dark that almost caught him off guard. Alongside these experiences, Valentine reflects on moments that shaped his view of others, such as the loss of respect for a fellow soldier, who abandoned him. Finally, he shares his return to civilian life and how his time in uniform left a lasting mark on him.

Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Steve Bonde, a Yorkshire lad whose path led from the northern hills to the corridors of the Foreign Office, only to be called back for National Service at the height of the 1960s Cold War. With a gift for languages and a drive to serve, Steve’s life took him from London’s vibrant streets to pivotal diplomatic posts behind the Iron Curtain and across continents — from the Middle East to the remote corners of Africa.

Beginning with his christening on the day World War Two was declared, Steve’s story is a tapestry of unique experiences. In this episode, we explore his time during National Service on the Inner German Border, the challenges he met in his Foreign Office career and the defining moments that shaped his perspective and legacy during one of the most politically charged eras of the past century.

We are privileged to share an interview with Arthur Perkins, recorded just weeks before his 100th birthday. It was part of the research for Matt Limb's book, We Will Remember - World War Two Veterans, and despite his age, Arthur was kind enough to share his time.

In this episode, we explore Arthur’s early life in his hometown of Nottingham, including the story he heard as a young boy from his uncle, a World War One veteran. We’ll also discover how a childhood accident, with his bicycle, may have saved his life when he was conscripted during World War Two.

Then we hear why Arthur was transferred to the Royal Engineers, as he worked loading shipping in preparation for D-Day and the liberation of Europe. Finally, Arthur shares his experiences serving in Egypt as a Medical Orderly and his transition back to civilian life after the war.

In this special introductory episode, host Matt Limb introduces you to Veterans Voices UK, a podcast dedicated to capturing the personal stories of British military veterans across generations. From the battlefields of World War Two to more recent conflicts, we explore not only their experiences in conflict but also the unique lives behind the service — their challenges, triumphs, and personal sacrifices.

But Veterans Voices UK is more than just a collection of war stories; it’s a platform for veterans to share their untold experiences in their own words. By preserving these stories, we honour their legacies and ensure future generations can appreciate the courage, resilience and humanity of those who have served.

Subscribe today on your favourite podcast platform to join a growing community passionate about remembering and celebrating our veterans. Plus for exclusive updates and ways to get involved, visit our website at www.veteransvoices.uk and sign up for our VIP Newsletter.

Thank you for being here at the start of this important journey.