By Claire Turner
In a display of courage and resilience, Afghanistan veteran Paul Jacobs GM, from Ramsgate, has become the first war blind veteran to conquer Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis.
Paul, who was brought up in Thanet by foster parents and attended Hereson School, reached the summit in just 4 hours 15 minutes on August 20.
The achievement carries powerful symbolism. On this day in 2009, Paul was blinded by an explosion while serving in Afghanistan with 2nd Battalion The Rifles.
The IED blast also claimed the life of his comrade Serjeant Paul McAleese while fellow comrade Private Johnathon Young lost his life in a separate explosion.
Paul was just 20 years old when he suffered the severe shrapnel injuries in his arm, legs and face, losing one eye, blinded in the other and sustaining a traumatic brain injury.
In 2010 Paul was awarded the George Medal, granted by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of “acts of great bravery”. He left the Army in 2012.
For Paul, every step of the Ben Nevis climb was both a tribute and a statement of defiance against the limits placed upon him.
He said: “This is more than a climb. It’s about proving that no matter the challenges, with the right mindset, anything is possible.”
Supported by a dedicated team, including Charity Ambassador Major Donnie Harris, Paul pushed through demanding conditions on the mountain. The climb was not only a personal milestone but also a fundraising effort for ASA Scotland, a forces charity that provides practical support and welfare services to veterans.
So far, Paul’s challenge has raised more than £2,076, with donations continuing to come in. The funds will directly support ASA Scotland’s vital work, helping veterans transition to civilian life and sustain their wellbeing.
Major Donnie Harris, who accompanied Paul, said: “I was truly humbled to walk beside Paul. His bravery and determination are inspiring. Although totally blind, he has shown the world that barriers can be broken. He didn’t just climb a mountain, he sent a message of hope to veterans everywhere.”
Paul’s achievement has already been described as record-breaking, marking him as the first War Blind Veteran to complete the climb.
Calling for more public support, Paul said: “Please, if you can, donate. ASA Scotland has been there for veterans for more than a decade, and they’ve never given up on us. I’m grateful beyond words for every donation so far, but we need to keep going. This charity changes lives.”
The climb also highlights a wider conversation close to Paul’s heart about the resilience of veterans and the importance of providing long-term support for those who have sacrificed so much.
Paul, 35, has raised hundreds of thousands for charities by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, cycling 500 miles, skydiving, running marathons, becoming the first blind war veteran to climb to Mount Everest base camp, walking across Norway for the Heroes of Telemark and more.
Donate at: https://asascotland.enthuse.com/cf/paul-jacobs-gm-ben-nevis-who-cares-shares-challeng
A massive Well Done Ginge, I have been up Ben Nevis, back in the day, and I struggled with full eye sight, I take my Hat of to you matey, onwards and upwards, all the best, Wolfie.
Absolutely massive well done be proud of everything you do and done and thank you for what you’ve done
Paul, Well done and congratulations, you are a credit to the Hereson School, the uniform you wore with such pride and an inspiration to all those who say – I can’t do that. Very well done.
Phil Hughes.