| Beijing silver medallist Lt Tom Lucy, 23 is nearly half way through his first tour of Afghanistan serving with K Company, 42 Commando Royal Marines. He helped Great Britain's 8 man rowing crew to finish just behind Canada in the Beijing finals in 2008. After achieving his Olympic dream he decided to fulfil his childhood ambition of joining the Royal Marines and earning the coveted Green Beret, which meant giving up his chance of rowing in the London 2012 Olympics. Tom said: "Joining the Royal Marines was always my life-time ambition; ever since I was 6 that's all I've wanted to do. I started rowing when I was fifteen. I had a brilliant time and got as far as I'd ever hoped and dreamed I'd get and after that it was time for a change". The Welshman, having completed the arduous course at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone know finds himself leading the men of K Company in Nahr-e Saraj south in Helmand Province. Every day is different and can range from patrolling with the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police to providing security for veterinary engagements. "It's very important work and we're helping to build the capability of the Afghan forces every single day. We're always out and about developing our relationship with the local people and deterring insurgents". There are vast similarities between life as an Olympic rower and as a Royal Marine. Staying fit is a necessity as is teamwork. But living in a humble patrol base is far away from the hype ... |
