Gareth Collett’s life took a decisive turn after the IRA bombings in Hyde Park and Regent’s Park on July 20, 1982. The tragic incident, which resulted in the deaths of 11 military personnel and seven horses, deeply impacted the 16-year-old, sparking his determination to pursue a career in bomb disposal.
Reflecting on the events, Gareth expressed his shock and anger at the senseless loss of lives, both human and animal. This motivated him to contemplate assisting in similar crisis situations, leading him on a path towards bomb disposal. Over the following 34 years, Gareth, now a retired Brigadier, served in various war zones, investigated war crimes, and engaged in conversations with notable figures such as the late Queen. His extensive career involved rendering 75,000 explosive devices safe, ultimately saving countless lives, albeit at the cost of experiencing PTSD.
Currently aged 59 and residing in London, Gareth, a fluent Arabic speaker, has channeled his experiences into a fictional book titled “Blasted Religion,” drawing inspiration from his bomb disposal career. Describing the writing process as cathartic, he plans to pen his autobiography next, pending clearance under the Official Secrets Act.
Coming from a family with a strong military background, Gareth’s interest in the armed forces was nurtured early on. Despite his familial ties to past wars, he aspired to a role focused on saving lives instead of taking them, leading him to pursue bomb disposal.
Gareth’s training as an ammunition technical officer involved rigorous testing and specialized instruction on diffusing bombs. Contrary to fictional portrayals, real-life bomb disposal required a meticulous understanding of bomb components to ensure safe disposal. The high-stakes nature of the job demanded a keen aptitude for assessing threats and making critical decisions under pressure.
Despite the challenges and dangers inherent in bomb disposal, Gareth’s commitment to saving lives remained unwavering throughout his deployments in conflict zones like Northern Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo. Each theater of war presented unique challenges, with Iraq standing out for its complex and unpredictable bomb threats, contrasting with the more structured approach of the IRA in previous conflicts.
Gareth’s experiences in bomb disposal, particularly in Iraq, left lasting scars, leading to his struggle with PTSD. His journey towards healing involved seeking support outside traditional military and healthcare channels, eventually finding solace and understanding through organizations like Help for Heroes.
Transitioning to academia, Gareth now imparts his knowledge and expertise as an Executive Director at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, teaching an integrated degree apprenticeship in Ordnance, Munitions, and Explosives. Despite the traumas endured during his career, Gareth remains resolute in his belief that his work in bomb disposal has made a meaningful impact, underscoring the importance of his life’s mission.
Gareth’s recent research into the link between high explosives and bladder cancer, prompted by his own diagnosis in 2023, sheds light on the health risks faced by bomb disposal personnel. Collaborating with colleagues, Gareth’s investigation aims to raise awareness and provide support for veterans grappling with similar health challenges.
As Gareth continues his academic pursuits and advocacy for veterans’ health, his dedication to service and resilience in the face of adversity serve as a testament to his remarkable journey in bomb disposal and beyond.