A dedicated Glasgow veteran has been honoured for his remarkable 15-year fundraising effort, which has generated nearly £120,000 for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
Double Honour for a Dedicated Fundraiser
Terence 'Terry' McCourt, 67, from Knightswood, has been recognised twice for his services to veterans in Scotland. He is due to receive an MBE in January and has now been celebrated by the charity itself at SSAFA’s Regional Recognition Awards in Stirling.
Terry was one of nine recipients from across Scotland honoured for supporting serving military personnel, veterans, and their families. The biannual awards, established in 2023, acknowledge the extra effort of SSAFA's volunteers, staff, and supporters.
A Family Legacy of Service
Terry’s commitment to the Forces community is deeply personal. After 12 years in the military, where he rose to the rank of sergeant with 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment (2 Para), he turned to fundraising.
His father, Peter McCourt, served with The Cameronians in World War Two, surviving Dunkirk and being wounded at Anzio. Terry’s son, Terry Junior, also completed 14 years’ service with 2 Para, making military service a true family affair.
Fundraising Between Shifts
Now a fundraising volunteer, Terry expertly juggles his efforts alongside his full-time job as a janitor at the Glasgow School of Art. He organises up to five collections a year at Glasgow Central Station, Scotland's busiest station.
With help from former Para colleagues, he can raise an impressive £1,500 in a single day. He has also taken on major challenges for SSAFA, including the 10-mile 13 Bridges Challenge in London and the gruelling 200-mile Ride to the Somme.
Terry credits the Glasgow banter and a strong work ethic for his drive. "I love the banter at Glasgow Central Station, and thousands of people come through there every day," he said. "SSAFA is a great organisation... I know I have helped a lot of folk. As long as I’m alive I will be collecting for SSAFA."
Fundamental Support for the Forces Community
Walter Gallacher, Convenor of the Scottish Resource Committee at SSAFA, praised Terry's unwavering commitment. "The tireless efforts of committed local fundraisers like Terry are fundamental to the work we do at SSAFA," he stated.
"Terry should be immensely proud of his long length of service dedicated to helping serving personnel, veterans, and Armed Forces families. We’re so grateful for his continued commitment."
SSAFA volunteers have been supporting the Armed Forces community – regulars, reserves, and their families – since 1885. Those wishing to volunteer, fundraise, or seek support can visit the SSAFA website and click "find your local branch".
