Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
War hero Sandy, 91, shares his remarkable story
A 91-YEAR-OLD WAR hero has shared the remarkable story of his survival after his ship was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine.
He was talking at an event highlighting a Scottish charity’s work supporting sight-loss veterans.
Arbroath man Sandy Davidson told how he spent 19 days at sea in shark-infested waters as the Angus provost dropped in to hear how a Scottish charity helps veterans with sight loss.
The local group gathers each month for a lunch organised by the charity Scottish War Blinded, which delivers regular social opportunities for veterans to come together and share experiences, as well as providing specialist equipment and technology to support independent living.
Mr Proctor said: “I was delighted to meet the veterans and hear more about the excellent work carried out by Scottish War Blinded.
“It was also extremely interesting to understand the specifics of what they do for individuals such as Mr Davidson – and, of course, to hear about his experiences in the Second World War.
“As veterans’ champion, I know just what a crucial role organisations such as Scottish War Blinded play, and I would commend them on their excellent work, as regular contact with outreach officers is invaluable in helping individuals adapt to sight loss.”
Established in 1915 the charity initially supported soldiers returning from the First World War, after many faced a life of permanent blindness from injuries caused by chemical weapons. Today, most of the veterans supported by the charity have lost their sight long after their service.