Diane Dernie, the mother of former paratrooper Ben Parkinson, appeared on BBC Breakfast to address Donald Trump’s recent comments on the actions of Nato troops
Ben Parkinson was injured in Afghanistan(Image: BBC screengrab)
A mum whose son sustained “catastrophic injuries” while serving in Afghanistan spoke out on BBC Breakfast following Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about Nato forces.
The US president faced widespread criticism after suggesting that Nato troops had “stayed a little back, a little off the front lines”.
Diane Dernie, mother of ex-paratrooper Ben Parkinson, appeared on the BBC programme on Saturday (January 24) to address the claims, describing her reaction as one of “shock” and “disbelief”.
Host Charlie Stayt introduced Diane by noting that Ben is “regarded as the most severely injured British soldier to survive in Afghanistan”, reports the Express.
Diane explained: “Ben was in Helmand Province in 2006, so 19 and a half years ago, when his Land Rover was caught in a landmine explosion. Catastrophic injuries, 37 separate injuries, the loss of both his legs, severe brain injury, spinal injuries, and given a zero chance of survival.
“Ben overcame everything, and now Ben has a marvellous life. He raises awareness, he raises money for military charities and supports his local schools. He has a good and he has a worthwhile life.
“But he didn’t pick up those injuries way behind the front line.”
When questioned about her reaction to Trump’s statements, she responded: “Well, when we first read what he’s written, it was shock. Disbelief that someone could say something so utterly wrong.
“But then, when you actually see the interview, when you see his affect, and you listen to his tone of voice, this man just shows utter disrespect, disparaging the effort and the sacrifice that our troops made. And you just wonder how a man in his position can be so wrong.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has responded to Trump’s remarks, branding them “insulting and frankly appalling”.
Speaking to Charlie and co-presenter Rachel Burden, Diane said: “We very much appreciate and agree with everything that Sir Keir Starmer said yesterday, but we want him to address that directly to Donald Trump.”
Charlie asked: “He (Starmer) said that if he had said words like that, he would be apologising. What’s the step you want him to take, Sir Keir Starmer?”
Diane replied: “That’s what he should be telling Donald Trump directly. That he should retract and apologise for his comments.”
BBC Breakfast airs from 6am on the BBC.