Ollie Osborne’s Story: Rebuilding Strength, Purpose and Identity and Helping Others Beyond Service

After fourteen years of military service, former Royal Marines Commando Ollie Osborne faced an unexpected battle—not on deployment, but within himself. Years of physical strain and declining mental health led to his medical discharge and a struggle to recognise the man he once was.

Ollie served in the Royal Marines from 2005 to 2011, then as a Royal Navy Physical Training Instructor until 2019, with fitness, discipline, and performance at the heart of his identity. A high-level athlete, he found purpose in indoor rowing, finishing 5th at the 2013 World Championships and winning two national titles.

But the same relentless drive that defined him also became his undoing. The physical demands took their toll, and when injury forced him to step back, the loss of that identity proved devastating.

“It broke me physically but also mentally. Losing that part of who I was left a huge void. They were not war-related injuries, but the result of years of physical wear and tear, and the mental toll that comes with service. I never believed poor mental health would be something I would suffer with, but it hit me hard. I felt broken, lost, and stripped of my identity.”

The physical consequences were immediate. Once a model of strength and conditioning, Ollie’s fitness declined, his weight increased and destructive behaviours crept in. Alcohol became a coping mechanism, self-discipline slipped away and the man who had once led by example no longer recognised himself.

“I became a shadow of the man I was. I wasn’t a good father or a role model. My world was crumbling around me. I felt embarrassed to ask for help, and the longer I left it, the worse it got. I lost my self-worth, my self-esteem and my confidence.”

Rebuilding from the Ground Up

Ollie spent two years in full-time military rehabilitation with Hasler Company, an experience that challenged him physically and mentally but also laid the foundations for a new path. It was during this time that he began to piece himself back together, one habit, one routine and one decision at a time.

“Rehabilitation was more than just rebuilding my body. It was about rediscovering who I was and who I could become. I realised that even if I could never be exactly who I was before, I could still achieve a level of strength, resilience and purpose I never thought possible.”

But leaving Hasler did not mark the end of the struggle. Almost as soon as he was discharged, the life he was trying to rebuild began to fall apart. He lost his job in professional sport and was left with no income and no direction. Then came the COVID lockdown, unemployment, a divorce, a child custody battle, bankruptcy and the death of his father all in quick succession.

“I thought I was on the rise, but little did I know that around the corner was chaos and destruction. It was blow after blow. I’d gone from believing I was on the way back to rock bottom. There were days I didn’t know how to keep going. But somewhere in that darkness, something shifted.”

The turning point came with his children. Motivated to become the father they needed, Ollie soon realised that true change had to start within himself. Like putting on your own life jacket before helping others, he understood that caring for his wellbeing was essential—and that’s when everything began to shift.

Even now, Ollie continues to manage the effects of those injuries, but he refuses to let them define him. As a 45-year-old man, father and soon-to-be husband, he has found a way to stay strong, healthy and lead by example.

“I still battle with injury. But I choose to show what’s possible. You might not be where you once were, but you can still be better, still achieve, still set the standard.”

Empowering Veterans to Reclaim Strength, Resilience, and Identity

From that realisation, Warrior Wellness Movement was born. A structured and results driven health and performance system built from lived experience. Ollie created a blueprint for holistic health designed to rebuild physical capability, restore mental resilience and support sustainable change. What began as a personal mission has since evolved into a comprehensive coaching system that has helped many veterans reclaim their strength, purpose and identity.

“Many veterans feel like their best days are behind them, but that’s simply not true. They might not be where they once were, but they’re capable of far more than they believe. The key is structure, accountability and the right support.”

Warrior Wellness Movement delivers that support through a proven framework built around physical strength, mental resilience, nutrition and community. The focus is on real results rebuilding fitness, improving strength and conditioning, supporting mental wellbeing and restoring a sense of identity and purpose. Much of Ollie’s work is done on a one-to-one basis, supported by a specialist coaching team dedicated to helping veterans move forward with strength and direction.

For veterans who feel lost, stuck or unsure where to start, the message is clear: you are not alone, and it is never too late to rebuild.

Expanding Support in collaboration with Veterans Welfare Group

Through a new strategic partnership with the Veterans Welfare Group, Ollie and the Warrior Wellness Movement are expanding their mission to support veterans’ successful transition to civilian life. As a Strategic Partner and Veteran Health & Wellness Specialist with the Veterans Welfare Group, Ollie will contribute to BeyondDuty+—a pioneering subscription programme that helps businesses employ, support, and empower veterans of the British Armed Forces to thrive in civilian careers.

With an average of five service members medically discharged every day, 48% of those leaving the armed forces with a disability (often hidden), and research showing that 40% of medically discharged veterans are affected by mental health conditions—PTSD being the leading cause—the need for veteran-led workplace support has never been greater.

Veterans bring unique strengths to the workplace, including discipline, reliability, leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Yet, many face challenges after leaving service—from adapting to civilian workplace culture to managing ongoing health and wellbeing needs. BeyondDuty+ bridges this gap, helping employers create environments where veterans feel understood, supported, and empowered to build sustainable civilian careers.

“Bridging the gap is vital. This partnership is about joining forces to support veterans at every stage of their journey. If you’re struggling with your health, your confidence or your identity after service, reach out. I’ve been there, and I know how hard it can be. But I also know how much strength you still have. Together, we can help you find it again.”

Ollie Osborne, Warrior Wellness Movement

“Ollie’s journey and work with Warrior Wellness Movement align perfectly with our mission at Veterans Welfare Group. His lived experience and expertise bring authenticity and strength to BeyondDuty+. Together, we’re helping veterans rebuild resilience, purpose, and identity as they transition to civilian life.”

Alex Demetrious-Seymour, CEO, Veterans Welfare Group

Benefits of BeyondDuty+

Exclusive resources, live chat, and needs assessments
Recorded Talks led by veterans and subject-matter experts

Enhanced employee wellbeing and workplace culture

One-to-One Support

In-person workshops led by veterans
Quick Access to Veteran support online, live chat and phone
Unlimited ongoing support and tailored recommendations via the Rehabilitation Pathway

What Businesses Get with BeyondDuty+

Veteran-Led Online Portal

Exclusive resources, live chat, and needs assessments
Recorded Talks led by veterans and subject-matter experts

Employer Recognition

BeyondDuty+ accreditation, certificate, and logo usage rights
Inclusion in case studies and promotional opportunities as a veteran-friendly employer
Strengthened corporate social responsibility and ESG impact
Reduced pressure on NHS services through faster access to private care