Staffordshire veteran shares journey from the frontline to supporting fellow ex-Forces colleagues

Jonathan Smith, who served in the Mercian Regiment, spent over a decade in the British Army, with deployments to Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Saudi Arabia. Today, he brings the values and skills honed through military service to his role as a Maintenance Supervisor with Housing Plus Group, while continuing his involvement with the Territorial Army and supporting veteran initiatives within the organisation.

“I always wanted to be a soldier and serve my country,” said Jonathan.

“I explored different options - the Engineers, the Paras - but the 3rd Battalion of the Mercian Regiment was my local unit. My grandfathers and great-grandfathers served in the same regiment, so it meant a lot to follow in their footsteps. The Regiment was made up of local lads, so we formed an instant bond and brotherhood.”

Jonathan joined the Army at 21, having worked as a carpenter since the age of 16. His strong work ethic helped him adjust quickly to the demands of military life. Among his most challenging deployments was his time in Afghanistan, where he served as part of a frontline infantry unit.

“We were the people on the ground, day in, day out,” he said.

“We would do up to four patrols a day, checking that the locals were safe and that the area was secure. We’d come into contact with the Taliban and other insurgent groups. It was an eye-opening experience.”

In 2019, after 13 years of service, Jonathan left the Army to focus on family life.

“My partner was pregnant with our daughter, and I wanted to be present. I had gained qualifications in the Army and knew I still had time to build a second career.”

After a spell in construction, Jonathan joined what was then Wrekin Housing Group - now part of Housing Plus Group - where he now leads the daily operations of the gas maintenance team. He ensures safety and compliance but also brings something more to the role.

“The Army teaches six core values: Courage, Discipline, Respect for Others, Integrity, Loyalty, and Selfless Commitment. I try to live by those values every day and pass them on to my team.”

Jonathan continues to serve in the Territorial Army, with Housing Plus Group providing leave for training. He’s also an active member of the organisation’s internal veterans working group, helping ensure ex-forces colleagues are heard and supported.

Before merging with Housing Plus Group, Wrekin Housing Group signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a national pledge to treat service members and veterans fairly. The Group was also awarded Silver status under the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, recognising its ongoing commitment to Armed Forces personnel.

“There’s always more we can do,” added Jonathan. “Having veterans involved in the conversation is key- we’ve lived it. I’ve also been proud to attend careers events for people leaving the Forces, to share my experience and help others make the transition to civilian life.”