Jo Hursey, 49, from Wootton Bassett, will join 10,000 others from the veteran community at the event in London on Sunday, November 9, as part of a group of around 50 veterans, carers, and staff from Help for Heroes.
Ms Hursey, a former staff sergeant, said: “As the nation remembers the fallen, I’m asking the public to join me in making a promise to today’s veterans and their families – so every person who serves knows they will be supported when their service ends.
“This will be the second time I have marched at the Cenotaph and, with everything going on in the world right now, it’s one day that we must remember.
“From World War One to now, on or off duty, we remember comrades who have fallen and it’s an honour to do it at the Cenotaph.”
Ms Hursey’s journey into the Army began unexpectedly.
She said: “It was never my intention to join up, but I’m so glad I did.
“I was a store detective and walked past the army careers office.
“Best decision ever.
“Once I had joined, I was so proud of my country and wanted to do something good.”
During her service, Ms Hursey suffered a leg injury that left her unable to walk properly and was later diagnosed with PTSD after being trapped in a burning vehicle in Northern Ireland.
She now lives with depression, anxiety, osteoarthritis, and a hearing impairment.
She said: “I’m lucky to be alive; lucky to be here.
“I feel guilty that I’m here and others are not, as they made the ultimate sacrifice.
“But happy and honoured to be at the Cenotaph paying my respects.”
Rob Marsten, services director for Help for Heroes, said: “As we join the nation to commemorate the men and women who lost their lives while serving our country, Help for Heroes also remembers those still fighting their own battles today.
“We remain at the side of veterans like Jo and their families who are struggling with painful injuries, mental trauma, isolation, and more – providing life-changing support for as long as it takes.”
Ms Hursey now works with children who have suffered personal trauma.
She described her role as “wonderful.”
