The Soldiers
Lance Corporal Ryan Idzi, Sergeant Major Gary Chilton and Staff Sergeant Richie Maddocks are the real-life soldiers who, in 2009, soared into the hearts of the British public with their album 'Coming Home'.
They went on to sell half a million copies of the album and performed in front of Her Majesty the Queen at the Royal Variety Show. In 2010, the inspiring trio make their DVD debut with a live recording of their hugely successful UK tour.
The Soldiers are three servicemen who have served in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Gulf War. Taking a break from their day job, the three joined together to make their first album in 2009, and in 2010 they returned with a UK tour and will release their second album 'Love Letters' in time for Christmas.
With a shared passion for music, Idzi, Chilton and Maddocks have fast become inspirational figures for their fellow servicemen and women, and their families. The youngest, 24 year old Lance Corporal Ryan Idzi appeared on X Factor and made it through to the Boot Camp stage of the show after singing Lean on Me. From Caerphilly, South Wales, Idzi has served in Iraq and Afganistan as part of the 20th Armoured Brigade.
Gulf War veteran Sergeant Major Gary Chilton joined the Royal Armoured Corps in 1984 straight from school and has performed around the world including a special show with Jools Holland at Twickenham. Gary fought in the Gulf War and was presented with The Gulf Medal by HRH The Prince of Wales upon return.
Sergeant Richie Maddocks from Oldham, Greater Manchester enlisted into the British Army at the age of 16 and has travelled throughout Europe, Canada, Cyprus, Finland and The Falkland Islands. Maddocks also fought in The Gulf War and was awarded The Gulf Medal.
