War is a harsh terrain for the human ear. In Afghanistan and Iraq the prolonged use of high velocity machine guns and antitank weapons is shattering eardrums. But it was the same in the Great War.

Few returned without loss of hearing that then grew worse. In the Second World War medics recognised that artillerymen and soldiers needed greater protection for their ears. But often it was not possible to protect them, particularly from incoming fire. Frequently the right ear suffered as the infantrymen fired .303 rifles.

Those serving in Afghanistan and Iraq need each of their senses as they patrol. The slightest sound could be enemy movement – little logic, then, in wearing ear protectors. So when a gunfight breaks out the level of noise is both jagged and incredibly high. A soldier will not be thinking of his ears. Yet that battle may affect his hearing for the rest of his days.

No soldier wants to admit that he is going deaf – it would mean no longer being of use in battle. Without full hearing you put yourself at a disadvantage – and those around you. Being close to a severe blast can also bring the loss of silence that comes with tinnitus.

No one has the perfect answer. Your ears may save your life; if they are overprotected that may cost you your life.

Max Arthur is author of Forgotten Voices of The Great War

Unit costs

The 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards
37 of its 411 soldiers have hearing problems classified as grade three or below – “impaired hearing”, “very poor hearing” or “invalidity required” – (9 per cent of its personnel)

The 1st Battalion The Royal Anglians
240 soldiers returned with hearing difficulties; 35 were categorised as undeployable or with limited deployment potential

The 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters)
34 out of 555 soldiers have hearing ailments (6 per cent)

45 Commando Royal Marines
31 of 963 personnel had hearing graded at level three or below (3.2 per cent)

40 Commando Royal Marines
28 Marines of 771 with grade three or below difficulties (3.6 per cent)

Source: MoD

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