Job reunites ex-soldier with Army friends

Feb 2 2006 By James Cartledge, Birmingham Mail

WHEN former soldier John Lynch landed a job at a city security company he couldn't believe his eyes when he turned up and found he was working alongside two old Army buddies.

The coincidence came when 43-year-old John, from Castle Bromwich, finally got a job after 18 months on the dole when he was taken on by Eagle Gold in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter.

The ex-Worcester Foresters Sergeant found himself working with his old Company Sergeant

Major Tony Peacock and a second former officer, Regimental Sergeant Major Bob King.

John said: "I can't believe what has happened, it's such a coincidence. I have been reunited with two of my mates and mentors.

"We haven't been out for a drink to chat about old times because we want to keep our relationship professional for now. I enjoy my work. I'm the sort of person that needs to be active and I've been put into a role I'm really happy with."

The trio served in the Worcester Foresters for more than 20 years and saw service in Northern Ireland, Germany and Cyprus.

John, also a former physical training instructor, was forced to quit after suffering serious injuries in a hit-and-run accident in Birmingham six years ago.

He was unemployed for 18 months before finding work through Pertemps.

Mr Peacock, Eagle Gold operations manager, said he remembered John in the early stages of his Army career.

"As a keen, fit, hard working, loyal and trustworthy individual, he gained the respect of his colleagues.

"He has won promotion due to his commitment, potential, and overall ability as a leader of men," he said.