A veteran from Accrington who was medically discharged from the army after being shot by a sniper in Afghanistan is on his way to becoming a pilot.

Sam Taylor, 36, always wanted to become a soldier and at 19 years old fulfilled his boyhood dream by joining the Royal Engineers.

Sam was posted to Afghanistan with 51 Parachute Squadron, 23 Engineer Regiment but in October 2010, when he was part of a team fortifying a command post, Sam was almost killed after a sniper shot through his neck.

Recounting the blood-curdling experience, Sam said: “I heard a loud crack. I didn’t realise I’d been shot.

“There was a fire fight, and I realised I couldn’t lift my rifle. I fell and I remember seeing the most beautiful blue sky. I received emergency care in the field and was then med-evac to Camp Bastion.”

Against all odds, Sam was lucky and survived the attack but he suffered severe damage to his spine and the injury left his right arm paralysed for six months. 

Despite Sam’s childhood dreams of being a soldier for life were over, Sam refused to give up and  on his return home after travelling the world he decided he wanted – and needed – a new life, a new ambition, and something with purpose that would provide for him and his family.

A friend sent him a link to Wings for Warriors, a small charity which gives wounded, injured or sick servicemen and women a future worth fighting for, by training them as professional pilots.

 Sam said: “I had no idea that I’d be able to fly commercially until I met Wings for Warriors.  Being accepted as one of their students has been life changing. They are funding my training and doing so much more – I’m part of a team of veterans and aviation industry experts.”

Sam has just finished his ATPL exams and is currently building flying hours before beginning a commercial license course at Skybourne Academy, Gloucester Airport.

He has had a conditional offer to join TUI as a pilot, subject to successfully completing his training. 

Sam said: “My ambition is to be an airline pilot and eventually be in a position with the skills and experience to train others, I can’t wait to achieve that goal!”

Mark Radcliffe, chair and founder of Wings for Warriors said: “For many soldiers, life outside the forces can appear scary and uncertain at the best of times. Add a life changing injury to the equation and the future can quickly become a dark and depressing place.

“Instead of a short-term project or challenge, we ensure veterans, and their families will continue benefiting from our support on a sustainable basis.

“We rebuild confidence and capabilities, and help veterans make the most of their transferable skills. We aim to restore pride and professionalism as commercial pilots.

“Sam is typical of our students – hard-working and determined. He is going to be an excellent airline pilot and I look forward to flying with him!”