The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, has announced the appointment of a new Veterans Commissioner, David Johnstone.
David Johnstone has 26 years distinguished military experience, having joined the Royal Irish Rangers (Reserve) in 1988. David commissioned from Sandhurst in 1991 and attained the rank of Major before leaving the Army in 2014. In 2004 David was deployed to Iraq as part of Op T elic 4 where he served as second in command of his company in Basra.
David will bring a wealth of experience and skills to the role of Commissioner having a proven track-record in property consultancy and as General Manager and Youth Development Manager of a local Irish league football club.
David Johnstone said, “I count it an honour and a privilege to be appointed as Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland. This is a very important role and one that can make a positive difference to the lives of veterans and their families. I aim to hit the ground running in the New Year, by getting out and engaging with the wider veteran community and key partners, alongside the experienced NIVCO team.
He continued, “I want to acknowledge the good work of my predecessor Danny Kinahan, and will endeavour to build on the strong foundation already laid since 2020. Can I say to all veterans, I am in this role to represent you, to be your voice and I will do my very best to ensure your service is not forgotten, but rather is respected and recognised”.
David is married with two adult children and in his spare time enjoys hill walking, football (playing and spectating) and military history. David will take up his appointment in January 2025.