This year marks ten years since the tragic passing of Captain David Seath. In this series of website articles, his family share their reflections on his life, legacy and all that has been achieved in his memory.
In this piece, David’s aunt, Morag, reflects on the joy he brought to those around him, the impact of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund established in his honour, and how, over the past decade, it has supported veterans and their families through Help for Heroes—creating a lasting legacy that continues to reflect his values, service and spirit.
1. Tell us about your relationship to David – Tell us more about him and any specific memories you’d like to share.
I’m David’s auntie and I have so many memories of him I could share, but one that always makes me smile is when he appeared on my doorstep one New Year’s Day having not yet been to bed.
He proceeded to tell me that the night before, he and some of his fellow officers—dressed to impress—had gatecrashed the New Year’s Eve ball at Gleneagles! They arrived in the car park in a bashed-up Punto (if anyone can remember those cars), strolled in as though they owned the place, grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing waitress, and spent the entire evening dancing, laughing and having a ball. I think he may even have popped a bottle of bubbly in some unsuspecting person’s room… what a boy!! 🤣🤣🤣
That was David all over—full of life, cheeky, confident, and always creating unforgettable moments.
2. This year, we’re marking ten years of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund – what’s your reflections on all that’s been achieved in supporting veterans and their families in David’s name, through Help for Heroes?
I couldn’t be more proud of the work that’s been done to support veterans and their families over the last 10 years. I still remember one of the first families we helped. The man had been unable to venture into the countryside on his bike due to life-changing injuries. He felt trapped, and it was starting to affect his overall wellbeing. His greatest wish was simply to take his dog out and cycle again.
Through the money raised by so many people, we were able to gift him an adapted bike. He was absolutely delighted, and a few months later he sent us the most heartwarming photo—out in the countryside with his lovely dog. I will remember that image forever. Moments like that really show the difference this fund has made, and continues to make. We raised a significant amount of money, and for me it was about more than that—it proved I could face anything, all in his memory.
3. We’ve established a massive fundraising community in that time – tell us about fundraising you’ve been involved in?
My biggest fundraising contribution came within a year of losing David. Like he did every day, I wanted to do something that truly challenged me—in fact, something that scared me beyond belief. I was persuaded that a 14,000-foot skydive would be an amazing way to raise money for the fund, and that if David was looking down, he’d be proud of his crazy auntie. In reality, I suspect he was up there laughing his head off as I screamed his name all the way down!
We raised a significant amount of money, and for me it was about more than that—it proved I could face anything, all in his memory.
4. What’s your message to encourage people to come along to Pittencrieff Park to support our 5K Run/Walk event on Sunday 26 April?
My message would be—no matter your fitness level, you can be part of this amazing event. Every single penny raised goes to those who really need it. These men and women don’t think twice when faced with challenges—so let’s do our bit for them. Come along, take part, support in any way you can, and be part of something truly meaningful.
You don’t have to jump out of a plane to support David’s legacy – could you give just one hour on Sunday 26 April?
Join us for the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk in Pittencrieff Park:
https://tinyurl.com/ykun2j52
Every step helps continue David’s legacy.