Paying tribute to former British Army bomb disposal expert now living at Heanton Nursing Home

On the 80th anniversary of VE Day a North Devon care home has been paying tribute to the more recent military career of one of its residents who served five tours in Northern Ireland and faced daily danger which carrying out bomb disposal.

Now living with dementia, former Corporal Pete Shepherd remains immensely proud of his service for his country and his room at Heanton Nursing Home is filled with memorabilia.

Above: Pete Shepherd is proud of his service

Pete joined the Royal Corps of Transport in 1965 at age 20. Over 12 years, he served five tours in Northern Ireland, including high-risk bomb disposal work during The Troubles.

His courage in the face of danger helped lay the foundations for modern bomb disposal techniques. He also served in Germany and Bahrain.

Decades later, Pete was diagnosed with PTSD, a reminder of the long-term impact of military service. His story highlights the importance of charities such as the Felix Fund, which support the mental health of bomb disposal personnel.

Despite hardships, Pete still fondly recalls light-hearted moments, from babysitting a rabbit to mischievous regimental pranks. For his service, he received the General Service Medal with Northern Ireland clasp.

Above: Pete Shepherd relaxing with comrades during his time in the British Army.

In 1971, Pete met and married Sally just two months after meeting – a love story that has lasted 53 years. After leaving the army, he worked for 30 years at a board factory, showing the same dedication he brought to military life.

Now living with a dementia, Pete has also faced cancer and major heart surgery. His daughter Claire describes the heartbreak of placing him in care, saying, “Watching his dementia progress feels like constant grief.”

Since moving into Heanton Nursing Home in April 2025, Pete has been supported with care that honours his identity. His room is filled with military memorabilia and he’s still proudly referred to as ‘Sergeant Shepherd’.

His salutes and discipline reflect the deep imprint of his service, offering a sense of continuity even as his memory fades.

Heanton specialises in supporting adults living on complex journeys, including dementia, mental health conditions and other long-term needs requiring compassionate and consistent care.

It aims to focus on truly understanding each person, their history, identity and what matters to them – enabling the right support without restraint or sedation.