Medic tells of work to save lives in war zone

Sgt Simon Murgatroyd, a soldier with 11 years' service, is serving his country in Afghanistan with the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC).

His job there is to supply life-saving equipment to all forward operating bases and patrol bases within Helmand Province.

His work is helping ensure the soldiers on the front line have the confidence that the medics have the correct equipment they need to save lives.

It is also part of his job to visit the forward operating bases and ensure that they are fully prepared and equipped.

Sgt Murgatroyd is a Class One trained medic and there have also been occasions when he has had to put these skills to the test treating casualties.

"The job I do is demanding but highly rewarding and it gives me great satisfaction knowing that I have had first-hand experience in helping to save lives," Sgt Murgatroyd said.

His time in Afghanistan has been hard work but there have been some notable high points with some high-profile visits to the medics at Camp Bastion, including David Beckham on a trip to see the troops.

"A visit from such a high profile celebrity raised the troops' morale no end," Sgt Murgatroyd said. "It was a pleasure to have met such a gentleman, especially one who speaks so highly of the British forces.

"The Prime Minister David Cameron also visited us here and gave a very inspiring speech which left us all in no doubt that everyone back home is behind us."

Sgt Murgatroyd, who attended Castleford High School, says that he joined the Army because of the challenges that he would encounter.

He said: "I have wanted to be a medic from an early age, helping people is my main priority and gives me a great sense of satisfaction.

"I would recommend the military to anyone. Like every job it has its ups and its downs, but I am exceptionally proud to serve in Her Majesty's Service and it is my wish to do so for another 11 years."

But he admitted that being away from his family has been hard and he missed his first wedding anniversary due to operational tours.

He said of his wife: "Fiona, I love you darling and can't wait to see you, I've missed you so much."

When he gets back from Afghanistan, Sgt Murgatroyd is looking forward to simply relaxing and spending time with his wife and family.