A former medic recounted a harrowing experience where an Iraqi civilian attempted to harm her while she was providing aid. Celia ‘Mitch’ Mitchell, a 65-year-old ex-Royal Navy member, participated in the 15th-anniversary ceremonies commemorating the conclusion of the Iraq War.
During an event at the National Memorial Arboretum, she shared her story with The Mirror. Celia described her time at 34 Field Hospital in Shaibah, the foremost British medical unit to operate near the front lines since the Crimean War. While stationed two miles ahead of the front, she treated Iraqi civilians amidst flying missiles, an experience that led to her PTSD diagnosis twelve years later.
Recalling a chilling incident, Celia mentioned a close encounter where she narrowly avoided a blade aimed at her throat while attending to a patient. Despite challenges, she emphasized the ongoing struggles she faces, including tearful moments and the haunting memories that persist long after returning home from the war zone.
Expressing her pride in her service, Celia highlighted the lingering impact of war on mental health and expressed relief that troops were not deployed to Iran. Another veteran, Janet Riddell, shared her ordeal involving a Black Hawk helicopter crash due to small arms fire outside Baghdad, resulting in severe knee injuries and eventually leading to the amputation of her right leg in 2017.
Janet recounted the chaos of the helicopter’s descent and the subsequent challenges faced amidst constant mortar fire in Baghdad. Despite the adversities, she displayed resilience and determination to continue serving, even under dire circumstances. Janet also reflected on the loss of a comrade and the poignant memories of their time together in the war zone.
The veterans’ accounts shed light on the enduring physical and emotional toll of military service, underscoring the complexities and sacrifices associated with wartime experiences.
