Veterans represent RAF Benevolent Fund in Israel for the Veteran Games

RAF veterans from across the UK are taking part in the Veteran Games in Tel Aviv, Israel from 27 May to 2 June.

The event recognises the fundamental role played by sport and family in supporting the ongoing recovery of veterans, who have suffered physical and psychological challenges as a result of serving their country.

Veterans are competing in a variety of sports while learning how their respective countries provide care for those wounded, sick and injured in the service of their country. They will have the opportunity to meet and share common experiences with other veterans in a relaxed and supportive environment, while enjoying social activities and cultural events that will provide an insight into Israel's rich heritage and history.

Four veterans are representing the RAF Benevolent Fund including Ann Hughes, Mick Curran, Siobhan Rattray and Stacey Mitchell. 

Mick Curran, 57, who began his career in the RAF aged 17 and went on to work as a policeman for 12 years, said: "I have only been able to do my archery activities because of the RAF Benevolent Fund – without the support I have received I wouldn’t have been able to get involved with the sport I now love. The Fund have enabled me to keep going and to have a positive outlook on life."

The Fund has helped Mick by funding his equipment, providing mobility aids, short breaks away and recently in 2023, a new sports wheelchair. 

Mick said: "I've been really looking forward to taking part in the Veteran Games. I’m not the sportiest person but I will get stuck in as it will be in a relaxed environment with other veterans who have been through similar experiences. I can't wait for the shooting exercises as I can use my archery skills."

Ann Hughes, 53, served as an RAF policewoman for 20 years said: "I had never heard about the Veteran Games, so when they asked me, I knew I wanted to get involved. I am most looking forward to meeting other veterans and Israeli veterans too. I used to be active in the RAF going on sailing, skiing, and mountaineering expeditions, so it will be nice to talk to others who are the same."

Ann found out she had MS in 2007. The Fund housed Ann in 2009 and made the necessary adaptations to make her home more accessible; helped to support the cost of a mobility scooter and has provided short breaks away with the Disabled Holiday Trust.

Ann said: "I don't know where I would be without the Fund. When I was discharged, I became very depressed, but the Fund were immediately there for me. They have been like a family helping veterans."

Stacey Mitchell, 29, joined the RAF in 2013 as a Senior Aircraftswoman. After sustaining an overuse injury in her leg and enduring years of decline and a loss of independence, Stacey decided to have through knee amputation for a better quality of life and in the hope to walk again one day. 

The Fund purchased a property for Stacey in 2022 and adapted it to meet her needs. Stacey is now able to take part in sports again, including skiing in a mono-ski. 

She said: "I received the opportunity to take part in the Veteran Games and thought it was not one to turn down. I love sports so I can't wait to take part, especially in shooting and CrossFit. I'm also really interested in the Second World War, so I'm looking forward to learning about the history in Israel."