Waterloo Uncovered, which was founded by Mark Evans and Charlie Foinette – both Coldstream Guards and former archaeology students who also served in Afghanistan – has supported veterans’ progress in the excavation of the Waterloo battle site in Belgium since 2015…
The charity supports the physical and mental recovery and welfare of veterans through archaeology, with both charity founders believing that the dig helps veterans find a useful route towards recovery and wellbeing.
Anchor Vans provided Waterloo Uncovered with a support vehicle that enabled veterans to take part in a recent therapeutic archaeological dig at Waterloo battlefield.
“Running a dig of this scale takes a lot of logistics and a lot of transport,” said co-founder Mark Evans. “We’re grateful to Anchor vans for, once again, helping us to transport the equipment we need to the battlefield dig.”
He went on to say: “Many in our team are suffering from physical and mental disabilities and issues as a consequence of their service, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“The opportunities Waterloo Uncovered offers can be life-changing. Veterans feel part of a group, and can follow up their fascination with the history to gain new skills and confidence.”
This year, Waterloo Uncovered excavated at Hougoumont Chateau from July 7 to 21. One hundred people joined the dig – more than a third of them veterans and serving personnel. Previously, veterans excavating this site have helped uncover French and British musket balls, uniform, and ancient buildings.
