Inspired by memories of those who did not return with him from the Falklands, Jan Koops together with Rod Morgan, will walk the entire 870 miles of the beautiful Welsh coast path, accompanying the 11 relay teams and the commemorative baton on their journey.
Jan says "This is a very personal journey of remembrance for me, a pilgrimage that I have wanted to do for many years."
"Too many of my fellow soldiers died in the Falklands and too many more still suffer from the impact of that conflict and conflicts since. I hope that this Walk will allow us to acknowledge those who died and help those who are in need."
Jan served in the Welsh Guards from 1978 to 1982 and saw active service in the Falklands and Northern Ireland. Jan was Captain of the Welsh Guards rugby team which won the Army Cup in 1982, shortly after which several members of the team were killed on the troopship, Sir Galahad in the Falklands.
Married to Fiona, with two grown up sons, Jan's personal pilgrimage will honour the spirit of those who have been killed in action and create a lasting legacy to help his many friends who struggle to overcome the long-term impact of active service. While walking, Jan hopes to rekindle old friendships, make new friends and have fun along the way.
While he does not come from 'the Valleys', having proudly served as an officer in the
Welsh Guards and played all his senior competitive rugby in Welsh teams, he feels a life affirming bond with the Celtic ways and his desire and commitment to complete the Walk is deeply rooted in this understanding.