Black History Month: A Conversation Between Generations

With 25 years of military service each, they compare their experiences across two generations, reflecting on what brought them into the Armed Forces and what their service means to them today.

Cliff Walker BEM MBE

Born in Antigua in 1941, Cliff moved with his family to London in 1955 and joined the Royal Air Force aged 17.

During his 25-year RAF career, he worked in administration and accounts, serving in Germany, Singapore and Malaya, as well as completing two significant tours in Cyprus.

He later worked for the Ministry of Defence at RAF Cottesmore, helping military families access housing, medical care and mental health support. His RAF work was recognised with a British Empire Medal, while his community service earned him an MBE.

Captain Keva Hackshaw

Keva joined the British Army in February 2001 from St Vincent and the Grenadines.

As a Geographic Technician, he developed specialist skills in analysing terrain and producing intelligence to help commanders make decisions. He later moved into education and training.

Among his most enjoyable roles has been serving as second in command of an Education Centre Group in Cyprus. Alongside delivering education to soldiers and officers, the centre works with the wider community, including the local school.

Watch their conversation to hear two personal perspectives on military life, Caribbean heritage and the meaning of Remembrance.

Video: Royal British Legion.