Carluke man awarded MBE for services to veterans, students and people with disabilities in Scotland
David Dent sustained life changing injuries during his time in the military.
Last updated 1st Jan 2022
A Carluke man is being recognised in the New Year Honours 2022 for services to veterans, students and people with disabilities in Scotland.
David Dent MBE was injured in combat during his time in the army and is now a wheelchair user.
He has blast traumatic brain and shrapnel injury as well as a non-complete spinal injury resulting in chronic severe disabling pain, mobility and neurological challenges.
He told Clyde 1: "I didn't believe it at first and I had to be sure that it was for real and not just someone playing a joke by pretending to be from the Cabinet office."
This achievement is extra special for David because he is keeping up a family traditon.
"My dad and grandad were both awarded this honour and so I am really looking forward to seeing the look on everyone's face when they find out.
"Being a member of the armed forces has taught me that other people's need are more important than mine and providing a service to the people around me is what really makes a difference."
David champions diversity through his voluntary work and contributes to management articles on disability and race.
He is also a trained nurse and has delivered healthcare and innovations to NHS patients for over 33 years.
He added: "I hope this shows people that it doesn't matter what your background is or what your challenges are, you can make a difference in the world if you put your mind to things."
A leader in sales, marketing and business development, he cites his passion for the wellbeing of other people as one of his biggest motivators.
"I think resilience is key to getting through tough times in your life whether it is grief or personal loss.
"You have got to learn that bad things can actually make you stronger.
"Resilience is something you can train and a lot of it is your mindset, you can't let things you can't control be a factor in your life.
"Control the controllable."
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