Cornish veteran joins 2,000-mile expedition with Invictus Games flag
Sailing adventure supports recovery and resilience of veterans
Royal Navy veteran Will Keating, known for his contributions to the Cornish music scene as a singer-songwriter and member of The Oggymen, is embarking on a significant journey.
Keating will be part of the Full Circle Expedition, a 2,000-nautical-mile sailing adventure around the UK aimed at supporting the recovery, resilience, and reconnection of wounded, injured, and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel.
Organised by the veteran sailing charity Turn to Starboard, the expedition is carried out in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
The expedition is not just a physical challenge for Keating but a deeply personal mission.
He hopes to address past trauma following the loss of a close friend during service and the death of his foster son years later.
Keating said, “I believe I will be a changed person when I come back for the better.”
Starting from Falmouth on 17th March 2026, the 12-week voyage will see Keating and fellow crew members sail on two traditionally rigged tall ships, visiting 22 ports across the UK.
Throughout the journey, the crew will carry the Invictus Games flag, raising it at each stop to build momentum towards the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
The Games, founded by Prince Harry, are designed to support the recovery of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans through the power of sport.
Keating, a patron of the Turn to Starboard charity, is committed to helping others on the expedition and often discusses male suicide and mental health at his performances.
He struggled academically in school but excelled in sports.
Joining the Royal Navy at 16, he pursued a career in rugby.
However, after a series of tragedies, including a knee injury that halted his rugby ambitions and the loss of his foster son, Keating turned to music for solace.
Performing solo and with The Oggymen, he has found a creative outlet to connect with others and support mental health awareness.
The expedition has an additional fundraising goal of £300,000 to enable the purchase of a second tall ship for Turn to Starboard, expanding support for veterans facing challenges like PTSD and physical injuries.