Hero pledges help to injured soldiers

Jo Sykes

15 May 2008

AN HEROIC Royal Marine in line for a Victoria Cross after an act of extraordinary bravery in Afghanistan has pledged his support to a borough charity dedicated to the welfare of injured troops.
Lance Corporal Matthew Croucher, 24, threw himself over an exploding grenade to save the lives of his comrades during a mission to uncover a suspected Taliban bomb-making factory in the Helmand province.
The former Lyndon School pupil from Olton miraculously survived by absorbing the full force of the blast through his backpack and body armour. The selfless act of bravery has led to a recommendation for the highest military decoration for valour. An award committee is currently assessing the nomination and is expected to announce its decision in six weeks time.
Thrust into the media spotlight, L/Cpl Croucher has decided to use his new-found notoriety to help Knowle-based charity Troop Aid. The purpose of the charity is to provide injured war troops - all of whom are flown back to Selly Oak Hospital or the Queen Elizabeth in Birmingham - with some of the bare essentials they need on their return. Founded in November 2006, Troop Aid has gone from strength to strength and is currently in negotiations to secure a royal patron.
Speaking to The Observer this week he said: "I first heard about Troop Aid through a friend when I got back from Afghanistan and decided I wanted to help. It was difficult to receive all the press attention after the VC nomination when there are men killed or a lot worse off so I decided to get involved with Troop Aid."
He added: "The charity has a massive effect on the soldiers they help. Although they get financial support from the MOD, the kits and family facilities Troop Aid have provided make a huge difference."
Following six months overseas, L/Cpl Croucher is taking a well deserved rest until July when he will return to his base in Taunton. In the meantime he will be visiting injured soldiers at Selly Oak and working alongside volunteers at Troop Aid.
Ray Warren , one of Troop Aid's founders said he was delighted to have L/cpl Croucher on board: "Having a young solider who has been injured himself wanting to support those coming back is fantastic. Having experienced what they are going through Matthew is equipped better than any of us to provide advice and support to these young lads in their fight to get better."
Anybody wishing to make a donation to the charity can send a cheque to Troop Aid, PO Box 11482, Solihull, B91 9LB or call Ray Warren on 07768945577.

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