Stories of Resilience and Connection: A Special Visit to Lewis

Our latest visit to Lewis wasn’t just about sharing a meal—it was about sharing stories, experiences, and strengthening the bonds that make this community so special. Alongside our breakfast club gathering, we had the privilege of conducting interviews for our upcoming podcast, and let’s just say, the conversations were nothing short of extraordinary.

Not only did we see familiar faces, but we also welcomed veterans, partners and children who had never attended before. Some had never met each other, proving once again how powerful community connections can be when given the right space to grow. Conversations flowed, laughter echoed through the room, and new friendships were formed over cups of tea and plates of food.

One particularly powerful story came from a Lieutenant Colonel who had transitioned out of service just six weeks ago. His military career spanned theatres across the globe, and hearing about his journey—from battlefield to civilian life—was eye-opening. Equally moving was the conversation with his wife, who shared her perspective on the transition. She made the decision to remain on the island with their children, prioritising stability and the strong support network that Lewis offers.

It was also fantastic to hear from veterans who are now working with the local cadets, returning to service in a new way and finding fresh purpose. They spoke warmly of how rewarding it is to mentor young people and stay connected to the values they hold dear.

The island’s commitment to its veterans was evident everywhere. Notices in shops, cafés, and supermarkets offered support, recognizing that not everyone relies on the internet and ensuring that no one in the community is left behind.

Yet, despite this strong community spirit, the rising cost of living continues to hit hard and veterans on Lewis are no exception. For some, affording the ferry to the mainland has become increasingly difficult, as prices climb without subsidies to ease the burden. Even travel across the island poses challenges, with some veterans receiving lifts from Ness to Lewis simply because they couldn’t afford the 32-mile round trip for breakfast.

Perhaps the most poignant conversation was with a veteran who has been back on Lewis for 18 months, a decision he credits with saving his life. After struggling with employment and mental health following his departure from the Army, he found himself in a difficult place. Prison, loneliness, uncertainty. But returning to Lewis gave him something invaluable: acceptance.

“There’s nowhere lonelier than a city,” he told us. “Up here, the guys know my story. They look out for me. They don’t hassle me, don’t crowd me—but they’ll give me a bell if they’re heading out to watch a game or go for a brew.”

And that’s the heart of it. A community that understands, supports, and lifts each other up.

This visit reminded us why these connections matter, and why we’ll keep listening, learning, and bringing people together—one story, one conversation, and one breakfast at a time.

Lewis’s history of resilience stretches far beyond today. The island carries the weight of sacrifices made in past conflicts, marking moments of deep loss and unwavering courage.

If the ratio of those killed to the total population (29,603, according to the 1911 Census) is considered, it’s evident that Lewis bore an immense cost—losing men at twice the rate of the rest of the British Isles.

Throughout Stornoway and beyond, memorials stand as solemn reminders of these sacrifices. One of the most poignant tributes overlooks the Beasts of Holm, commemorating the tragedy of New Year’s Day 1919, when 181 island sailors perished along with several crew members of HMY Lolaire as the vessel grounded and sank just before reaching home.

Other memorials speak to the island’s enduring military legacy: the familiar cairn outside the Drill Hall remembers the Ross Battery, while the Seaforth Highlanders plaque on the old Clock School tower has stood since 1923. The Nicolson Institute bears two plaques in memory of former pupils lost in war, and churches across the island, from the High Church to St Peter’s, pay tribute to those who once sat among their congregations before making the ultimate sacrifice.

More recently, the communities of Melbost and Branahuie came together to erect a new war memorial, positioned opposite the former gates of Stornoway Airport. Across the islands, statues and stones mark the courage and commitment shown by generations of service members.

Lewis has always been a place of strength, whether in remembrance or in the continued care for its veterans today. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, where the sacrifices of yesterday inform the support networks of today, and where no one is left behind.