Reservist, 55, becomes oldest person to complete Nato’s toughest challenge

A 55-year-old Scottish army reservist is believed to have become the oldest person to complete Nato’s toughest patrolling challenge.

Major David “Harry” Hood, from Dunfermline, earned a bronze medal in the gruelling Exercise Cambrian Patrol, which sees teams of soldiers attempt to navigate a 60km course through the rugged Brecon Beacons in under 48 hours, while carrying 35kg packs.

Along the way they are faced with challenges such as river crossings, mass casualty scenarios and minefield clearances in an event designed to test their endurance, skills and leadership abilities.

The toughest moment came after the river crossing — running on just an hour of sleep, soaked through in only waterproofs, and freezing

Major David 'Harry' Hood

In the run-up to the event, the former regular army soldier, who is now a reservist with 7 Scots, led his team through a rigorous training regime focusing on navigation exercises and essential military drills.

However just days before the event the team found itself a man down after several members had to drop out due to work commitments, injuries or illness, resulting in Major Hood calling on his son – also a serving soldier – to step into the breach.

Major Hood said: “We had been training for months, but being reservists and given how tough the test is, some had to drop out. Days before the exercise, we were a man down and couldn’t compete — so that’s when I phoned my son, Declan.”

Corporal Declan Hood, 26, also serves with the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Major David ‘Harry’ Hood completed the course alongside his son Corporal Declan Hood, who he drafted into his team at the last minute after some participants dropped out (Ministry of Defence/PA)

Major Hood added: “I knew he didn’t have a training at the time, so I got in touch and arranged for him to be released. He completed his medical, and we got him on board.”

The 55-year-old reflected that having his son alongside him on the course “made a big difference”.

“It was a real once-in-a-lifetime experience to share with Declan. At one point, he really kept me going,” he said.

“The toughest moment came after the river crossing — running on just an hour of sleep, soaked through in only waterproofs, and freezing – it was hard to stay motivated.

“I fell into a drainage ditch but Declan was there to pull me out. Having him there, both for support and to help physically, made a big difference.”

Major Hood, who joined the army in 1985, had already completed the challenge once before in 1992, when he was in his 20s.

It was a true team effort. I couldn’t have done it without the rest of the troops

Major David ‘Harry’ Hood

However he said this time round it was even more rewarding due to the teamwork and camaraderie in the 7 Scots team.

“I originally had no intention of doing it, but after training with the team and seeing their dedication and hard work, I felt I had to take part,” he said.

“I was in my 20s back in 1992, and while I may not have the same physical stamina, my mentality has certainly strengthened from years of experience in service.”

“It was a true team effort. I couldn’t have done it without the rest of the troops.

“They were an inspiration, and the way they represented 7 Scots and the Army Reserve is something to be truly proud of.”