Charity event to remember soldier Louis Kelly

Those were the words Paul Ungi who is aiming to raise awareness of mental health within the armed forces in memory of his nephew.

On October 14, last year, Louis Kelly, was found hanged in his bathroom at Swinton Barracks in Perham Down. He was a sapper in the 26 Engineer Regiment of the Royal Engineers — he was 20-years-old.

Speaking about Louis’ death, Paul said: “It was very out of character for him to do that. He was just always happy, he never gave any signs. He gave so much to so many people that when it came to his own wounds he ran out of plasters.”

Now Paul is hoping to put on a one-day event in January next year, combining Louis loves of Mod culture and scooters in aid of All Call Signs.

The charity for veterans and serving military personnel gives a place for people to talk to about the stresses of daily life in and out of uniform.

“I thought I would do my best to try and support that particular charity,” the 51-year-old said.

Louis Kelly

Many years ago Paul, of Amesbury, along with The Kiwi Throttlers Scooter Club organised a March of The Mods event, which Louis was too young to attend and now he hopes to recreate that in Louis’ memory, this time called One Last Hoorah.

At the Royal British Legion in Tidworth there will be bands playing Mod and soul era music, along with DJs.

Also attending will be Butterfly Collective, Louis’ favourite band, and The Soniks and Bitter Pills.

Scooters will also be a part of the day, after Louis was a fan.

Paul said: “When my dad passed away his dying wish was for me to give Louis my Vespa which we had built. Louis’ face was an absolute picture but he used to work near Argos and one day he came out and it had been pinched.”

The scooter, which was owned by the family for generations, was found smashed and dumped in the woods — it was beyond repair.

“With Louis now gone but not forgotten, he always asked me to organise one more event and so I am,” Paul said.

“Mental health issues have been brushed under the carpet. A problem shared is a problem halved.

“I just think it is important, too many soldiers are taking their own lives and we don’t know the reason for it — it needs to be bought to people’s attention.”

On the day volunteers from All Call Sign will also be on hand to talk to those in need of support from the charity.

Anyone who can provide help to the event is asked to email Paul on paulungi@icloud.com.