Q&A with Taxi Charity ambassador and veteran, Chris Langford

Veteran, Chris Langford, was introduced to the Taxi Charity in 2023 and quickly found a renewed connection with the veteran community. His first major trip was the 79th anniversary D-Day commemorations in Normandy, where he met veteran Victor Needham-Crofton, who has since become a close friend. In August 2026, Chris was invited to become an ambassador for the charity. Here's a short Q&A with him...

1) When and where did you serve in the Armed Forces?

I served in the British Army with the 1st Battalion Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, known as "The Tigers" from 2004 to 2012. During that time, I was primarily based in Paderborn, Germany. with training exercises across Europe and Canada. I was deployed operationally to Iraq and Afghanistan.

2) What was your role during your military career?

I began my career with 1PWRR, B Company, 6 Platoon, serving in a rifle company. Early on, I completed both Warrior Gunner and Warrior Driver Cadres, allowing me to fulfil a variety of operational roles. Following a tour in Iraq, I moved to the Battalion's Specialist Y Company, joining the Recce and Sniper Platoon. During my deployment to Afghanistan, our platoon was attached to 42 Commando Royal Marines as their Armoured Recce Platoon, taking part in major operations including Operation Red Dagger in Helmand Province.

3) When did you leave the Armed Forces, and what did you do afterwards?

I left the Army in 2012. Following a serious training accident in Canada, which resulted in a compressed spine, I underwent a lengthy period of rehabilitation. Around the same time, both of my parents became seriously ill with cancer, and after my father sadly passed away in 2013, I found a new calling as a funeral director. Supporting bereaved families and showing empathy during some of their most difficult moments felt like a natural transition, and it remains a role I find incredibly rewarding. My deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan had a significant impact on me, both personally and professionally. They taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of teamwork under pressure. Working in challenging and often unpredictable environments helped me develop strong problem-solving skills, discipline, and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations. The experience also gave me a greater appreciation for leadership, camaraderie, and supporting others through difficult circumstances, qualities that continue to influence how I work and interact with people today.

4) When did you first come across the Taxi Charity and how did you become involved?

I was introduced to the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans in 2023. After leaving the military, I didn't feel particularly connected to the veteran community, despite always being proud of my service. The charity gave me an opportunity to reconnect, meet veterans from different generations, and become part of something very special.

Chris with Victor Needham-Crofton

5) What was your first Taxi Charity event or trip, and what do you remember about it?

My first major trip with the charity was the 79th Anniversary D-Day commemorations in Normandy in 2023. It was an incredible experience and the trip where I properly met now 93-year-old veteran, Victor Needham-Crofton, who has since become one of my closest friends. Being able to commemorate such an important moment in history alongside veterans, volunteers and fellow supporters made a lasting impression on me.

6) What does the Taxi Charity mean to you personally?

The Taxi Charity has given me a sense of belonging and connection that I didn't realise I was missing after leaving the Army. It has given me opportunities to stay connected to the military community, meet remarkable people, and take part in experiences I never thought I would have again. Through the charity, I have been able to revisit important historical sites and commemorate events that hold deep personal meaning. These experiences have helped me reflect on my own service while also gaining a greater appreciation for the sacrifices made by others.

What stands out most is the generosity and dedication of everyone involved. The volunteers, taxi drivers and supporters go above and beyond to ensure veterans are treated with respect and recognised for their service. Their commitment creates lasting memories and demonstrates genuine care for those who have served.

The Taxi Charity is much more than an organisation. It keeps the spirit of remembrance alive, brings veterans together, and provides support in ways that can make a real difference. I am proud to be part of it, and I will always be grateful for the opportunities and friendships it has given me.

7) Having experienced the charity as a veteran yourself, what do you think makes it special?

What makes this charity so special is its ability to bring veterans from different generations together. Whether they served during the Second World War or in more recent conflicts, there is an immediate sense of understanding and camaraderie that comes from military service. The charity provides opportunities for veterans to commemorate military history, share their experiences and connect with others who understand their journey. In doing so, it helps friendships, reduce isolation for the older veterans and creates lasting memories.

What stands out most is the genuine care and respect shown to every veteran. From the amazing volunteer taxi drivers and event organisers to the dedicated team working behind the scenes, everyone is united by a passion for supporting veterans and honouring their service. I have seen first-hand how veterans from different eras come together through mutual respect and shared values. The charity offers far more than days out and events; it creates meaningful experiences that recognise veterans' contributions and helps ensure that their courage, sacrifice and stories are never forgotten.

8) What is your favourite Taxi Charity memory so far?

While I've been fortunate enough to take part in some incredible trips, including the 80th Anniversary D-Day commemorations in Normandy and visits to the Netherlands, my favourite Taxi Charity memory is the friendship I've developed with so many of the people involved with the charity, particularly veterans Victor Needham-Crofton, 93, and WWII veteran Paul Terry, 101.

We've travelled together, laid wreaths together, laughed and cried together, attended charity events, shared countless breakfasts, dinners, cups of tea and plenty of biscuits, and supported one another through life's ups and downs.

The friendships that grow through the Taxi Charity perfectly sum up what the charity is all about. It brings people together and creates connections that last long after the journey home from trips.

9) What do you enjoy most about spending time with fellow veterans?

I enjoy the understanding that exists between veterans. There are experiences, values and even senses of humour that don't always need explaining. I also enjoy hearing stories from different generations and learning about their experiences. The friendships formed through those shared connections are incredibly valuable.

10) What do you enjoy doing when you are not supporting the Taxi Charity?

When I'm not supporting the Taxi Charity, you'll usually find me tinkering on a guitar, on the bowls green or throwing a few darts. I also love watching boxing and football. I say 'watching' because my football-playing days are firmly behind me, according to my knees, back, and pretty much every other joint I own.

My favourite pastime, however, is laughing. I've been told I have a loud, dirty laugh - I take that as a compliment. If I'm laughing hard, I'm happy, and if I've got others laughing too, then that's a bonus! 😄I enjoy socialising, getting out and about, meeting people and spending quality time with those who are important to me.

11) Do you have any hobbies, interests or passions?

Apart from what’s mentioned above, I have a keen interest in history. Since I was a young boy, I've always been fascinated by the Tudor period and also military history, and enjoy visiting places of historical significance, particularly through the charity's commemorative trips. Above all, I'm passionate about supporting others, whether through my work as a funeral director or the friendships and connections I've built through the veteran community.

12) What does being a Taxi Charity ambassador mean to you?

Being a Taxi Charity ambassador is a huge honour and something I am incredibly proud of. The Taxi Charity has had a genuinely positive impact on my life, helping me reconnect with the veteran community and build friendships that I will cherish forever. As an ambassador, I have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity and the extraordinary work carried out by everyone involved, helping to ensure that veterans' stories and sacrifices continue to be remembered. It is a privilege to represent an organisation that truly feels like family.

To the taxi drivers, I will always remain in your debt for your kindness and support. Thank you.

Chris with Normandy veteran, Paul Terry