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New job and a navy role for Mumbai victim
A MAN who was shot by terrorists in Mumbai has stunned family and friends by becoming a Royal Navy Reservist.
FRONT PAGE Our report on the Mumbai attack
Harnish Patel was blasted in the legs and chest by gunmen who opened fire in the Leopold Cafe, in the heart of India's financial capital, in November 2008.
The 30-year-old, from Havant, suffered life threatening injuries but has not only managed to amaze doctors with his speedy recovery but has gone on to complete the London Marathon and several half marathons.
He has now joined the part-time forces and landed a job as a chartered surveyor.
He said: 'It's great being back in a professional working environment doing what I enjoy doing.
'Life is great, everything is starting to come together albeit all very simultaneously.
'I began working with Hughes Ellard Chartered Surveyors last week and commenced training with the Royal Navy Reserves on Tuesday after successfully passing the recruitment process.
'I have always been keen on the services and had passed the selection process for the Royal University of London Training Corps in 2000.
'However, circumstances at the time meant I could not commit. I must admit it has played on my mind over the years and I really did not want to regret missing out this time around so I'm really making up for lost time. A few people were a little surprised to learn about my intentions to join the Royal Navy following my experiences in Mumbai. The bottom line is that after the attacks I vowed to get life back on track and crack on. And that is precisely what I intend to continue to do.'
Harnish is lucky to be alive - almost 180 people died when Pakistani militants launched a string of carefully planned attacks in Mumbai. But the experience has not put the former Oaklands School pupil off combat.
He said: 'The requirements and training are the same as the regulars and once at full training strength there is a high chance I will be deployed at some stage. With the RNR I can continue to maintain my career as a chartered surveyor and my running commitments with Victory Athletic Club.'
Today he will compete in the Overton Five mile road race.
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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