Danny Egan, Director of Health & Wellbeing with RMA – The Royal Marines Charity recently joined Rear Admiral Judith Terry OBE, Director of Personnel and Training RN (pictured left with Stephen Hart) and other military and civilian personnel at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, Lympstone for the unveiling of a Reflection Bench in honour of Captain James Simpson (known as Jim).
Jim was a Royal Navy submariner who had an impressive career, attaining the rank of Captain in just over 18 years. He spent a significant amount of time at HMNB Clyde in Scotland and was hugely respected by those who had the honour of working with him. Sadly, in 2020, he took his own life.
The bench is one of many being donated by HELP Jim’s Story. This is a fund set up by Jim’s family and friends under the Royal Navy and Marines Charity to raise awareness and understanding around mental health – to prevent another person suffering as Jim did, and another family having to deal with such devastation to their lives. In honouring this link and amongst the guests was former RM Officer, Stephen Hart who was a close friend of Capt Jim and a Simpson family friend; and PO Ian Allen, a member of Dreadnought Ships Company that is affiliated to HELP Jim’s Story.
Danny said:
“This fantastic initiative resonates so well with our own ‘Lifting the Lid’ mental health awareness project – that it takes a stronger person to know when they require support and to ask for it when needed. Do not suffer in silence, ‘lift the lid’… speak to someone and utilise the support available.”
Mr Hart added:
“Jim cared passionately about the welfare and mental wellbeing of his team. By understanding your own mental health, you are more capable of recognising signs in others and have the confidence to act when needed. Having strong bonds with others provides an opportunity to share our feelings and know that we are understood.”
Photos: Rear Admiral Judith Terry OBE with Stephen Hart: Group left to right: CTC Padre Paul Andrew, Danny Egan, Ian Allen, Stephen Hart and CTC Padre Phil Carroll
