Carluke veteran remembers grandfathers' World War II service

Glasgow Times

04-05-2025

David Dent, MBE, who suffered life-changing injuries during his own service, is reflecting on the contributions of his grandfathers, who both served and survived the war.
David, from Carluke, served with the Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps until a blast injury in Bosnia in 1994 led to his medical discharge in 2000.
David Dent UN Operations Former Yugoslavia 1995 (Image: Supplied)
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The 58-year-old still experiences chronic pain and PTSD to this day, and uses a wheelchair daily.
Despite his own struggles, he fondly remembers his grandfathers' service.
He said: "I remember them as smart, quiet, and considerate, but still traditional and firm, really enjoying the simple things in life.
"Granddad Higson loved his gardening, especially his roses, and grandfather Dent his little farmhouse, with animals – including a donkey in the field behind – and dogs.
"Peace, quiet, and family were the most important things.
"Tellingly, like many of that generation, neither ever spoke of their experiences in the war at all."
David with ex-marine JJ Chalmers (Image: Supplied) His paternal grandfather, George Vernon Dent, MBE, served with the South Staffordshire Regiment, playing a crucial role in protecting Atlantic convoys and participating in the Battle of Caen.
His contributions were recognised with the award of the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
His maternal grandfather, Major Ben Higson, was stationed in Perth with the West Yorkshire Regiment when war was declared.
He retired in 1970, after almost four decades of service, and was decorated with numerous medals including the Defence Medal, Victory Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal.
As VE Day approaches, David has stressed the importance of remembering such events.
He said: "World War II was one of the most significant and devastating conflicts in human history.
"Remembering the generation of soldiers and families from World War II is crucial.
"Armed Forces personnel and their families made immense sacrifices.
"Many lost their lives, endured severe hardships, and faced unimaginable challenges.
"By remembering them, we honour their bravery, dedication, and the ultimate sacrifices they made for our freedom.
"It also helps us learn valuable lessons about the consequences of war, the importance of peace, and the need to prevent such conflicts in the future – especially in the turbulent world we currently live in."
After his service, David faced his own battles, which he overcame with support from Help for Heroes.
The charity has already supported more than 31,000 people and strive to continue to champion the Armed Forces community.
With the support he has received, David has managed to become a successful athlete.
He is now the first seated athlete to set a world record under the Royal Scottish Highland Games Association – a distance of 23ft 6 inches in the shot put.
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David has become a successful athlete (Image: Supplied) In addition, David is now an advocate for disabled veterans, a university lecturer, a company director, and a consultant for the Scottish Government.
Help for Heroes supports veteran families from any branch of the UK military regardless of the length or place of their service.
More information about the organisation can be found on the charity's website.