Those who gave everything in Iraq and the personnel I brought through the hospital in Basra deserve to be remembered.” These powerful words from Steve Hooper, a former member of the Royal Air Force, capture the deep emotions carried by many who served during the Iraq War.

Steve Hooper dedicated 19 years of service to the Royal Air Force, joining with the intention of working as a mechanical transport driver. Like many young recruits, he expected his role would focus on driving vehicles and supporting aircraft operations. However, when he was deployed to Iraq in 2003, his experience quickly became far more intense and life-changing than he had ever imagined.

“I joined the RAF to be a mechanical transport driver. I just thought I was going to be driving vehicles and servicing aircraft,” Steve recalled. But during his deployment, his responsibilities shifted dramatically. Instead of routine duties, he found himself working in a critical role transporting injured personnel, effectively serving as a paramedic driver in one of the most dangerous environments of the conflict.

Stationed near Basra, Steve witnessed the devastating realities of war firsthand. Day after day, he transported wounded soldiers and personnel to medical facilities, seeing injuries and trauma that would stay with him long after returning home. The experience left a lasting impact on him and many others who served alongside him.

“It’s beyond scary,” Steve shared. “And coming home was very difficult.” For many veterans, the end of deployment does not mark the end of the struggle, as memories and experiences from the battlefield often remain.