Basra to Helmand: A Night at Stormont

On the evening of 19 September, the Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioners Office hosted over 100 veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns, specifically those who served in Operation TELIC and Operation Herrick. The event, held at the historic Stormont Parliament Buildings, was a poignant and heartfelt gathering that celebrated the shared experiences, camaraderie, and resilience of these veterans.

The evening commenced with a stirring performance by the Frontier Pipes and Drums Band, a unique collaboration of musical veterans. These veterans, bound not only by their service in uniform but also by their love of music, came together to form this one-of-a-kind pipes and drums band. Their music set a fitting tone for the night, evoking a deep sense of pride and unity among those present.

Attendees were then given the rare opportunity to explore the Parliament Buildings, where they embarked on a tour that allowed them to fully appreciate the historical significance of the venue. Of particular interest was the Senate Room, which held a crucial role during World War II as an RAF command operations room. This detail underscored the building’s long-standing connection to military history and added an extra layer of meaning to the evening’s proceedings.

After the tour, veterans gathered in the Long Gallery for a light supper, where old friendships were rekindled, and new ones were formed. The atmosphere was warm and reflective, with veterans exchanging stories from their time in service, many reconnecting after years apart. The sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, so deeply rooted in shared experiences of war, was palpable throughout the evening.

The highlight of the night came with an insightful talk by guest speaker Mike Murdoch. Drawing from his extensive career, which spanned both Iraq and Afghanistan, Mike shared his personal reflections and stories from the frontlines. His words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom had walked the same path and faced the similar challenges during these tumultuous campaigns.

The event was more than just a formal gathering—it was an opportunity for veterans to reconnect, reflect, and reform bonds that had been forged in the harshest of environments. Many had not seen each other in years, and for some, this evening was a long-awaited reunion. As the night progressed, it became clear that events like this are essential in fostering the deep brotherhood and sisterhood that is unique to military service. 

In every conversation and every shared memory, the veterans reaffirmed the deep ties that bind them together—ties that extend far beyond the battlefield. For many, the night at Stormont was a reminder of the enduring strength of those bonds and a chance to celebrate the resilience, sacrifice, and shared history of their service from Basra to Helmand.