A group of Britain’s bravest heroes find themselves on the front line of an entirely different battle in this two-part special. An inspiring documentary, War Torn chronicles the experiences of injured British service personnel as they embark on the journey of a lifetime, scaling the Everest region of the Himalayas.
The 80-man Khumbu Challenge expedition recreates a military environment and is part of a five-year initiative to help rehabilitate members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Drawing on their courage, these men are determined to overcome their individual adversities, whether it’s the loss of limbs, a facial disfigurement or mental trauma. And although not everyone will complete this arduous task, the solidarity between this band of brothers is awe inspiring.
Their stories also provide insight into the often overlooked issue of what happens when military men, who have experienced indescribable horrors in Afghanistan and Iraq, return to civilian life. War Torn focuses on how these individuals recover from their wounds, be they appalling physical injuries or emotional scars.
One of these men is 22-year-old Marine Ben McBean, who lost an arm and a leg in a landmine explosion in Afghanistan in 2008. Ben approaches his struggle with a smile: “There’s no point whinging for another 60 or 70 years, you’ve just got to crack on with life.” Lance Corporal Matt Kingston, 24, shares this outlook. After having his foot amputated, he’s determined to complete the challenge, even if it means going on crutches. Another individual deeply affected by the disorder: in 2007, he witnessed the deaths of his two best friends. Danny now suffers from recurring nightmares, anxiety, depression, sleep deprivation and fits of anger, all of which can be triggered by the sound of a helicopter, the slamming of a car door, or a noise from the TV. All three are hoping that the Everest expedition will help them put their demons to rest.
Royal Patron of the project HRH Prince Harry returned from Afghanistan last year with Corporal McBean. Prince Harry comments: “I wholeheartedly support this extraordinary initiative, and would like to express my sincere admiration to organisers and participants alike.” Inspirational, uplifting and heroic, War Torn documents the camaraderie of our injured soldiers as they embark on an extraordinary mission.
Tuesday 22 & Wednesday 23 December 9pm
Sky1 HD & Sky1
