PRIDE IN SOLDIER NOMINATED FOR AWARD
Army, completing tours in Afghanistan, Iraq, Northern Ireland and Bosnia – was difficult for all the family.
Three years after his death, their home is filled with photographs of happy times the family shared.
She said: “The girls were very close to their dad and its been hard for them. We keep little mementos and photos of him around and it makes us feel close to him.
“We were used to him going away on tour but we never thought anything would happen to him while on holiday.
“He was healthy, fit and had everything to live for. It took a long time to accept he was gone.
“My way of coping was keeping myself busy with the girls.
“I was totally focused on them. It was hard at night when I was putting them to bed and they were crying for their dad.
“Things like my daughter’s school prom were very emotional. We all miss him so much.”
Now the family are determined to keep Philip’s memory alive by helping other children whose parents have died while serving in the forces. They have raised thousands by completing a Tough Mudder obstacle course for charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers.
Julie Ann said: “We wanted to do something to remember Philip. The girls were keen to pay something back for all the support they have had.
“Scotty’s Little Soldiers have been amazing – they send the girls a voucher on their dad’s anniversary so they can go for a meal and sit and share the memories of their father.
“They also get a shopping voucher as a wee treat. At Christmas, they got a £150 present which Mia used to buy a clarinet and Niamh new trainers.
“They wanted to give something back and said, ‘Mum, what can we do?’ The charity have been a real Godsend.”
Julie Ann is touched her husband has been nominated for a Daily Record Forces Hero award and believes it is a fitting tribute to a dedicated soldier.
She added: “Philip would be very proud and I can’t think of a better way to honour him.
“He is greatly missed but his memory will live on with his family and friends forever.”
The Daily Record Our Heroes Awards, sponsored by Utilita Energy, honour ordinary people who do extraordinary things. And we want you to tell us who.
Jem Maidment, head of communications at Utilita Energy, said: “It’s a real honour for Utilita Energy to be the main sponsor of Our Heroes.
“This wonderful event shines a light on Scotland’s unsung heroes – their stories are inspirational and their recognition well-deserved. We look forward to hearing about more incredible people over the coming weeks.” ● The ceremony will take place at the Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow Central, on May 19.
For tickets and sponsorship visit www.dailyrecord ourheroes.co.uk or contact Debbie Caldwell – email debbie. caldwell@trinitymirror.com or phone 0141 309 1475. OUR LITTLE HERO Sponsored by Utilita Energy For those children whose achievements, courage or bravery make your heart burst with pride. OUR FORCES HERO Do you know an outstanding serviceman or woman who deserves to be honoured. OUR SENIOR HERO Our pensioners remain the backbone of the country. Who is extra-special? OUR COMMUNITY HERO Sponsored by Intu Braehead We’re looking for Scots who go out of their way to help those around them. It could be a volunteer or just someone who is a force for good in the community. OUR EMERGENCY SERVICES HERO We’re not just looking for lifesavers, we also want to know about the beat bobby who goes an extra mile and the firefighter or paramedic who is at the heart of the community. OUR FUNDRAISING HERO Sponsored by Scotmid Co-operative For Scots determined to make dreams come true through fundraising. OUR ENTERTAINING HERO Sponsored by Macklin Motors Nissan Someone from the world of entertainment who makes us proud. OUR SPORTING HERO Sponsored by QTS Scotland has a host of sporting stars who are striving to be the best. Our hero does not need to be a winner but someone who has shown real dedication to their sport. OUR CARING HERO Sponsored by the Scottish Government A true hero in the medical or caring professions. OUR HERO 2017 Sponsored by Utilita Energy One special person from our category award winners will receive this highly coveted title. ● To nominate someone, go to: www.dailyrecord ourheroes.co.uk