Simon Weston, a Falklands War veteran who sustained severe burn injuries during the 1982 conflict, has described Argentina's display of a flag during the World Cup as "childish and disrespectful." Weston, a former soldier with the Welsh Guards, was injured when Argentine Skyhawk fighters attacked the RFA Sir Galahad on June 8, 1982. The attack resulted in 48 deaths and 97 injuries, including Weston, who suffered burns to 46 percent of his body.
Weston, 64, underwent more than 90 surgeries over many years to recover from his injuries. He stated that the World Cup banner was "disappointing, disrespectful, very unprofessional, and childish." He believes that politics should not be displayed in sports, as sport is intended to unify people rather than divide them.
Following the attack, Weston faced significant challenges in re-entering the workforce. He recalled being told by a resettlement officer that he was unemployable. The Welsh Guards supported him for as long as possible while he was hospitalized and undergoing surgery. However, upon leaving the Army after three years in recovery, he found himself in a difficult job market with approximately three million unemployed.
His recovery and subsequent career path led him to co-found the charity Weston Spirit in Liverpool, marking the beginning of his extensive work in charity and fundraising. Weston's financial life improved significantly in the mid-1980s when his book, "Walking Tall," became a bestseller, leading to more opportunities, including public speaking and television appearances. He also took on roles as a head fundraiser for various charities.
Reflecting on financial decisions, Weston highlighted the importance of life insurance, which provided security for his family during a period when he was traveling extensively for work. He and his wife Lucy own a five-bedroom detached house in Cardiff and two other properties. His primary financial focus remains on paying bills, taxes, and the remainder of his mortgage.