Wiltshire soldier taking on Vietnam challenge for SSAFA

15 October 2024

Wayne Byles from Larkhill is heading on the Vietnam Trek on 21 October to raise funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

The Vietnam Trek will run from 21 to 30 October, starting in Hanoi before venturing through the valleys and paddy fields of northern Vietnam to the breath-taking mountains of the Hoa Binh province.

Wayne has served 21 years in the British Army and is currently a Unit Welfare Warrant Officer (UWWO) with the British Army’s 47th Regiment Royal Artillery, where he focuses on enhancing the wellbeing of service personnel and their families.

Outside of work he enjoys carp fishing, watching combat sports like UFC, and spending time with his wife Catherine and daughters Kaitlin and Lottie.

Wayne has plenty of experience in charity events: “Historically, most of my charity work has been focused on Brain Tumour Research and Crohn’s and Colitis UK. However, after seeing firsthand how charities like SSAFA support soldiers and their families during their times of need, I felt inspired to do my bit and contribute to their incredible efforts.”

Previously Wayne has completed challenges like 12 half-marathons in 12 days, but due to injury he is unable to run the longer distances he used to run. The Vietnam Trek will be challenging but easier for Wayne, and he is looking forward to hiking in the hills outside of Hanoi and getting to know the other participants.

To donate to Wayne’s fundraising page click here.