02/09/2026
In our new feature, we’ll be sharing some of the correspondence our team receive as they go about their duties - Dispatches From BK (Veterans External Relations Officer)
To Whom It May Concern
My name is Fred Strick. A retired WO2 and Veteran of service in the Light Infantry and Royal Green Jackets
I heard about the Veterans Orthopaedic Service from my good friend Brian Kilty with whom I served. Brian works for VOS as Veterans External Relations Officer. My right hip had been painful for several years and was limiting my activities. I asked my GP for a referral and was seen in Jan 2020 by Lt Col Meyer. I was told I needed a hip replacement but had to lose weight first.
Unfortunately, Covid kicked in and all operations were suspended. I ended up losing three stone. I was called for a pre-op and in Nov 2020 had my total hip replacement. I returned to Cornwall a month later after staying at my granddaughter's for my recovery period. I returned to the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital for two follow up appointments and was then discharged.
I was soon back to walking my dog, initially for short distances, but soon built up to eight miles regularly over the hills and trails of West Cornwall
By 2023 my other hip had become painful. I requested another referral to the Veterans Service. I was delighted to be seen in the the new Veterans Wing. The building is decorated in a military fashion and gave me additional confidence that I was being looked after by a team that understands the military. I was particularly pleased to see my regimental plaque on the wall. My operation was carried out in April 2024. I spent my recovery, once again, at my granddaughter's house in Oswestry which is local to the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital. Once I was able, I returned to my home in Cornwall and continued my recovery
I am now two years post op and I’m still walking daily over the Cornish countryside, all thanks to Lt Col Meyer and his Team. I am especially grateful to my very dear friend Brian Kilty without whom I would not have known about the service and would have had a long painful wait for surgery.
BK VERO
We travel not for trafficking alone
