The IRA attacks in Hyde Park and Regent’s Park on July 20, 1982 had a profound impact on Gareth Collett, shaping his career path towards bomb disposal. The tragic incident, which resulted in the deaths of 11 military personnel and seven horses, fueled his determination to pursue a life dedicated to defusing explosives.
Reflecting on the bombings, Gareth expressed his shock and anger at the senseless loss of lives, both human and animal. The event prompted him to contemplate the motivations behind such acts of violence and inspired him to assist those in similar perilous situations.
Over the course of 34 years, Gareth, now a retired Brigadier, has been involved in various conflict zones, including Northern Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo. His experiences ranged from defusing explosive devices to investigating war crimes and engaging with international diplomatic efforts. Despite saving countless lives, his service took a toll on his mental health, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
At the age of 59, Gareth has authored a fictional novel, “Blasted Religion,” drawing from his real-life experiences in bomb disposal. The book served as a therapeutic outlet for him, allowing him to process the challenges he faced throughout his career. He aspires to pen his autobiography next, pending clearance under the Official Secrets Act.
Growing up in a military family, with ancestors who served in World Wars, Gareth’s decision to pursue bomb disposal was driven by a desire to protect lives rather than take them. His specialized training in ordnance and bomb disposal equipped him with the necessary skills to analyze and neutralize explosive threats effectively.
However, the reality of bomb disposal differs significantly from its portrayal in popular media. Gareth emphasized the complexity and danger involved in defusing bombs, highlighting the meticulous process of identifying and dismantling various components of an explosive device.
Despite the rigorous training, facing a live bomb in a real-world scenario is an entirely different challenge. Gareth recounted his experiences of confronting explosive threats, emphasizing the inherent fear and responsibility that come with the job. The constant risk and pressure of safeguarding lives demand unwavering focus and adherence to protocols.
Gareth’s career trajectory led him to diverse conflict zones, each presenting unique challenges. His involvement in Iraq, in particular, posed significant dangers due to the unpredictable nature of the improvised explosive devices encountered there. The complexity of the conflict and the presence of multiple factions intensified the risks associated with bomb disposal missions.
Having experienced the loss of colleagues and the trauma of handling mass casualties, Gareth grappled with the psychological impact of his work, eventually developing PTSD. Despite the challenges he faced in seeking mental health support due to his sensitive role and security clearance, Gareth found solace and understanding through specialized veteran support services.
Recognized for his exceptional service, Gareth received a CBE for his contributions in Afghanistan and had the honor of interacting with the late Queen during his tenure in royal protection. His journey from frontline bomb disposal to academia reflects a commitment to sharing his expertise and training the next generation of ordnance specialists.
In his research on the health implications of bomb disposal work, Gareth discovered a concerning link between exposure to explosives and increased risk of bladder cancer among personnel in the field. His personal battle with cancer underscored the importance of investigating and addressing the potential health hazards faced by bomb disposal experts.
Through his ongoing research and advocacy for affected veterans, Gareth aims to raise awareness of the health challenges associated with bomb disposal work and provide support for those impacted by occupational hazards. Despite the hardships and sacrifices endured during his career, Gareth remains steadfast in his belief that his efforts have made a meaningful difference in the world.