A former RAF serviceman has welcomed moves to support Derbyshire troops returning from battle.
Derbyshire County Council has approved a string of measures to aid servicemen and women who have returned home from war zones.
The plans include providing refuge for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and offering advice on jobs, training, money and health.
Ex-RAF serviceman John Cox, who served in The Gulf in the 1970s, supported the measures.
Mr Cox, 62, of The Green, Glapwell, said: “These council plans will help make a difference to a lot of very brave people.
“For a long time there seemed to be an expectation that servicemen and women should go and fight and return home with no issues – but that’s not the case.
“When I came back I received no rehabilitation and it was a really traumatic and horrible time.”
Haunted by the horrors of war, John – who witnessed the deaths of two close friends one Christmas Day – was left suffering with partial deafness, depression, mood swings and blackouts.
Thanks to the national charity Combat Stress he has been able to find ways to survive the everyday nightmares and traumas.
Cllr Andrew Lewer, leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “We are wholehearted supporters of the armed forces, past and present.”
For more information about the plans, contact Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058 or 01629 533190.
Alternatively, email contact.centre@derbyshire.gov.uk.
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