Still Serving: Tirtha's Story
Tirtha Thapa grew up dreaming of following the men in his family into the British Army. A third‑generation Gurkha, he was inspired by his great‑grandfather, grandfather, and father, all of whom had served with pride. In 2005, at the age of 21, he achieved what he calls “the greatest honour of my life” when he was selected to join the 1st Battalion, Royal Gurkha Rifles, beating thousands in the famously tough selection process.
During his seven years of service, Tirtha completed two tours of Afghanistan. His first deployment came when he was just 23. His second, in 2010, changed his life forever. While clearing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from an alleyway, Tirtha stepped on a device and was caught in the blast. He lost his left leg above the knee.
He remembers every moment.
He didn’t lose consciousness. He was screaming, aware of everything, as his colleagues rushed to save him. He was taken to Camp Bastion, then flown to Birmingham, where his long rehabilitation began.
Tirtha spent almost two years at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Headley Court, learning to walk again with a prosthetic leg. The physical recovery was gruelling, but the emotional impact was even harder.
Leaving the Army, the career he loved and was so proud of, was devastating.
For the first time in his life, Tirtha felt truly alone.
He couldn’t imagine working again, walking confidently, or playing sport.
“I didn’t know what my future looked like,” he says.
In 2012, everything changed. Tirtha was offered what he calls his “second chance” by Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE). He joined Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (BBMC), RBVE’s national social enterprise, and quickly became a valued member of the sign manufacturing team. Surrounded by other veterans who understood his journey, he found purpose, pride and belonging again.
RBVE also helped Tirtha and his family move into a new home in Maidstone, close to the veterans’ village. The stability of secure work and a supportive community allowed him to rebuild his life and look forward with confidence.
Today, Tirtha is a Team Leader in BBMC’s Signs Department. He oversees production, mentors younger veterans, and is known for his calm leadership and quiet determination.
“Being here is like a family,” he says.
“RBVE gave me a second chance — not just to work, but to live well.”
Outside of work, Tirtha has embraced new challenges. He learned to play golf, something he once thought impossible, and takes part in RBVE’s annual bike ride from Aylesford to Ypres, cycling hundreds of miles on his prosthetic leg. He is a devoted family man, proud of the life he has rebuilt.
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