Reflecting on the Powerful Memorial Lecture with Sgt Simon Harmer

On Wednesday, 13th November, we had the privilege of hosting the Annual Memorial Lecture at our college, an event sponsored by the Trustees of the Blackpool Grammar School War Memorial Foundation. This annual lecture honours the memory of those who served and sacrificed their lives in both World Wars and later conflicts, and this year’s speaker left a lasting impression on all who attended.

We were thrilled to welcome Sgt Simon Harmer, a former combat medic in the British Army, to speak about his journey of overcoming life-changing injuries and the strength of character that kept him moving forward.

Sgt Harmer’s career in the British Army spanned 16 years, with service in Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations worldwide. His active service took him to some of the world’s most challenging environments, but it was during his tour of Afghanistan in 2009 that he experienced injuries which ended his military career. Despite this life-altering event, Simon refuses to be defined by his injuries, and instead, he has used his experience to inspire others.

Simon’s talk was a powerful reminder of the strength we all have within ourselves, especially when facing adversity. His message of resilience resonated deeply with students, staff, and guests alike, and his ability to overcome challenges has made him a sought-after speaker across Europe, with past engagements including Tedx, Facebook, The Royal Ballet School, and Northampton Saints Rugby Club.

We’d like to thank everyone who attended the lecture and participated in this special event. It was an inspiring morning that truly highlighted the importance of resilience, strength, and the value of sharing our stories. We’d also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Blackpool Grammar School War Memorial Foundation for their continued support in making this event possible each year.

Looking forward to seeing what next year’s Memorial Lecture will bring, as we continue to honour the legacy of those we’ve lost and learn from those who continue to inspire us.

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