A 55-year-old army reservist proved age is just a number after he became the oldest person to complete the most punishing NATO patrol challenge.
Major David ‘Harry’ Hood earned a bronze medal in the gruelling Exercise Cambrian Patrol, which sees teams of soldiers attempt to navigate a 37-mile course through the rugged Welsh Brecon Beacons in under 48 hours while carrying 35kg packs.
Along the way, they are faced with challenges such as river crossings, mass casualty scenarios and minefield clearances in an event designed to test their endurance, skills and leadership abilities.
In the run-up to the event, the former regular army soldier, who is now a reservist with 7 Scots, led his team through a rigorous training regime focusing on navigation exercises and essential military drills.
However just days before the event the team found itself a man down after several members had to drop out due to work commitments, injuries or illness, resulting in Major Hood calling on his son – also a serving soldier – to step into the breach.
Major Hood, from Scotland, said: “We had been training for months, but being reservists and given how tough the test is, some had to drop out. Days before the exercise, we were a man down and couldn’t compete – so that’s when I phoned my son, Declan.”
Corporal Declan Hood, 26, also serves with the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Mr Hood said tackling the course with his son by his side “made a big difference”.
Major Hood added: “I knew he didn’t have a training at the time, so I got in touch and arranged for him to be released. He completed his medical, and we got him on board.
“It was a real once-in-a-lifetime experience to share with Declan. At one point, he really kept me going.
“The toughest moment came after the river crossing – running on just an hour of sleep, soaked through in only waterproofs, and freezing, it was hard to stay motivated.
“I fell into a drainage ditch but Declan was there to pull me out. Having him there, both for support and to help physically, made a big difference.”
Major Hood, who joined the army in 1985, had already completed the challenge once before, in 1992, when he was in his 20s.
However, he said this time round, it was even more rewarding due to the teamwork and camaraderie in the 7 Scots team.
He continued: “I originally had no intention of doing it, but after training with the team and seeing their dedication and hard work, I felt I had to take part.
“I was in my 20s back in 1992, and while I may not have the same physical stamina, my mentality has certainly strengthened from years of experience in service. It was a true team effort. I couldn’t have done it without the rest of the troops.
“They were an inspiration, and the way they represented 7 Scots and the Army Reserve is something to be truly proud of.”
