Soldiering On Awards, 2017 Finalists

Angela Rippon, Host, Presenter, Rippon

Soldiering On Awards – Friday 24 April 2017
Presented by Angela Rippon and Cassidy Little 

Our immense thanks to everyone who made this year’s awards evening the best yet!


RECIPIENTS OF THE SOLDIERING ON AWARDS 2017


A video of the highlights of the 2017 Awards can be seen below:

 


Healthcare and Rehabilitation Award

In recognition of an individual, group or organisation who have made a major contribution to the prevention of ill health or injury, or have provided exceptional skill and commitment to healthcare treatment, or the recovery and rehabilitation from ill health or injury, of serving and former members of the Armed Forces.
Ash Clare, Brig Fred Hargreaves, Redwood Technologies, Martin Taylor, Healthcare and Rehabilitation

Winner: Ash Clare (collected by Brig Fred Hargreaves)

Mr Ash Clare – A founding architect of BattleBack, Ash has dedicated the past eight years supporting wounded, injured and sick personnel from across the Armed Forces. The Battleback programme has supported more than 1500 individuals through their recovery in activities such as sailing, swimming, cycling, rock climbing, horse-riding, water-skiing and alpine skiing. Using Adaptive Training and Sports as a vehicle for Rehabilitation, Battle Back programmes promote confidence and independence .. and accelerate physical, psychological and social recovery.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by Redwood Technologies


 Family Values Award

In recognition of an individual, family or group whose selfless commitment, dedication and support for others in ensuring that they are cared for, is a shining example of Family Values.

Mr and Mrs J Clayton, Family Values Award, NetApp

Winner: Mr & Mrs J Clayton

Mr & Mrs Joseph Clayton – Nominated by their daughter, because of the numerous times they’ve stepped in to look after their two grand-children… when she and her husband have been called away on duty simultaneously. Daughter Sharon explained – there is no mechanism to recognise the unsung heroes – our families – that support us 24/7. And who is always there when we need them. Their loyal service allows us to serve our country.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by NetAppSoldiering On, SOTLT, Soldiering On Awards, 8 Voices, Park Plaza, 18 April 2015, 18 Apr 15, Cobseo, Lord Astor, Tal Lambert, NetApp, Paul Wooding


Sporting Excellence Award

In recognition of an individual or group who have overcome their disability or injury to excel in the field of sport.

Sporting Excellence Award (individual), Owen Pick Spectra Group, Simon Davies

Winner (Individual): Owen Pick

Owen Pick – Owen – then aged 18 – was halfway through his first tour of Afghanistan when he was thrown ten feet into the air after standing on an IED. Waking up in the UK and undergoing dozens of operations – he eventually opted for a below-knee amputation. Blesma helped him discover his love of snowboarding after his medical discharge and within 18 months he was hurtling up the world rankings, beating able-bodied competitors. Owen is now ranked 7th in the World and is on target for a podium finish in the 2018 Winter Paralympics in South Korea.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

 Sporting Excellence Award (group), Row 2 Recovery, Row2Recovery, Spectra Group, Simon Davies

Winner (Team): Row2Recovery

Blesma Row to Recovery – In 2016 Four men with three legs between them decided to row across the Atlantic and into the record books. The Blesma Row2Recovery Atlantic Mission became the first all amputee crew to row the 3000 miles from the Canary Islands to Antigua. It took them 1.4 million strokes and 46 days… but they received a heroes welcome when they arrived, finishing eighth out of 26 teams.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by Spectra


Inspiration Award

In recognition of an individual or group who, in spite of major personal challenges, injury or disability, have set an inspiring example to others, embodying the Spirit of Soldiering On.

Inspiration Award, Adam Francis, Skanska, Joe Webster

Winner: Adam Francis

A civilian HGV driver, Adam was serving with the TA in Afghanistan when his vehicle struck an IED. He suffered multiple, major injuries – including losing both his legs. When he woke up in intensive care in the UK he set his first goal – to get home to his young family for Christmas, a month away. He managed it. He later returned to his driving job – passing his test without telling his examiner he was an amputee. He also returned to riding his beloved motorbike – after meeting True Heroes Racing. Remembered by all he meets, his company now also employs him as an inspirational speaker.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by SkanskaSoldiering On, SOTLT, Soldiering On Awards, 8 Voices, Park Plaza, 18 April 2015, 18 Apr 15, Cobseo, Lord Astor, Tal Lambert, Skanska


FiMT ‘Working Together’ Award

In recognition of an individual, team or organisation that has demonstrated an enduring commitment and collaborative approach to supporting the sector within the wider community.

FiMT Working Together Award, Forces Friends Project

Winner: Forces Friends Project

Age UK Nottinghamshire has formed a partnership with the Royal British Legion in the East Midlands. Together they’ve developed the ‘Forces Friends’ Project. It provides a befriending service to support lonely and socially isolated veterans living in Nottinghamshire. As a short-term intervention, it helps former service personnel to re-engage socially, develop confidence and become involved in their wider community.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Supported by The Forces in Mind Trust FiMT_logoCMYK-web


Animal Partnership Award

In recognition of the special companionship and support provided by Animal Friends as well as the achievements of individuals, groups or organisations that support and provide them.

Animal Partnership Award, Pets at Home, Jock Hutchison and Horseback UK

Winner: Jock Hutchison and Horseback UK

Jock Hutchinson set up Horseback UK when he was made aware of sixteen young Marines that had been injured in Afghanistan. He thought it would be a great idea to get the lads up to the farm for a while to get away from the clinical part of their recovery. Today, HorseBack UK is a unique charity delivering mental and physical rehabilitation to predominantly Military personnel via horsemanship and outdoor activities.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by Pets at HomeSoldiering On, SOTLT, Soldiering On Awards, 8 Voices, Park Plaza, 18 April 2015, 18 Apr 15, Cobseo, Lord Astor, Tal Lambert, You Tube, Canine Award Sponsor, Steve and Kizie, Pets at Home


Business Enterprise Award

In recognition of an individual, group or organisation who have demonstrated sustained innovation, providing business and enterprise solutions to challenges faced by servicemen and women, their families and the Armed Forces Community as a whole.

Business Enterprise Award, X-Forces, telent

Winner: X-Forces Enterprise

X- Forces Enterprise offers a holistic approach to helping members of the military community by bringing together Government, charity and big business to help individuals launch their own companies. X-Forces smashed a glass ceiling by lobbying for policy change to improve access to Start Up loans when barriers of age and credit history had previously been a hurdle. Over three years they’ve helped 700 entrepreneurs including service-leavers, reservists and cadets.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by telent Technology Services Ltdtelent logo


People’s Choice Award 

A nomination to be considered for recognition and selection through a public vote via one of the UK’s leading national newspapers.

People’s Choice Award, Simon Brown, The Sunday Express

Winner: Simon Brown

Nominated by Blind Veterans UK, Simon had just successfully led a mission in Iraq to rescue six stranded colleagues when he was shot in the face by a sniper and had to be put into an induced coma, after initially giving himself first aid. Simon has dedicated himself to working with charitable and voluntary organisations, using his experience to motivate others. Thanks to his perseverance, good humour and positivity, many ex-Service men and women living with severe sight loss are receiving life-changing support.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by The Sunday Express

Sunday Express 1


International Award 

In recognition of outstanding achievements, acts of personal sacrifice or comradeship are demonstrated internationally, by individuals, groups or associations which have supported the British Armed Forces Community.

International Award, Project Gemini, Airbus Defence & Space

Recipient: Project Gemini

Project Gemini: Set up in 2011, Project Gemini brings together British and American veterans who have lost their sight… many as young soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is designed to share knowledge of rehabilitation and training as well as strengthen trans-Atlantic relations between Blind Veterans UK and the Blinded Veterans Association, which is headquartered in Washington. It is a perfect example of international cooperation between the two countries and the Armed Forces Communities. Every year they meet up to share stories, take part in sporting activities such as cricket and archery – and learn from each other.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Sponsored by Airbus Defence & Space

Logo 2


Lifetime Achievement Award

In recognition of an individual or group whose lifetime of dedicated service has provided a significant contribution in support of the Armed Forces Community.

Lifetime Achievement Award, Meg Atkinson, Square Mile Salute and CSARN, Anne Donoghue, Brett Lovegrove

Recipient: Meg Atkinson

SASRA Scripture Reader Meg Atkinson (MBE) – Described as a ‘walking morale boost’… For 42 years Meg has provided faithful service as a Scripture Reader – one of the SASRA – Soldiers’ & Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association members. Now based at RAF Brize Norton, she is the only Scripture Reader to wear the light blue uniform as all others are based in Army units. As Brize is operational 24-hours a day – she visits those on the base at night and on weekends too. In 2009 she was recognised for her ministry and awarded an MBE. She’s never without her infamous bag of Meg’s Mix – a selection of treats to bring a smile to those she meets. Meg has previously said – “I have been privileged to experience some wonderful memorable moments but none compare to the memorable moments of leading service lads and lasses to the Saviour. Those moments will last into eternity”.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:

Supported by Square Mile Salute and CSARN

sms 1L


Trustees’ Special Award 

In recognition of an individual or group whose dedication to the military family has provided a significant contribution in support of the Armed Forces Community.

Trustees' Special Award, The Taylor Family,

Recipient: The Taylor Family 

Sixteen-year-old George Taylor comes from a unique family…where three generations are dedicated to supporting military personnel, past and present. Dad Dave is a Poppy Appeal organiser for Gravesend. Mum Cheryl – sister Katie along with their Nan have been trialling a Veterans Breakfast Club in their region, amongst many other events. Each and every member of the family gives their support to the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal..all year long.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:


Outstanding Contribution Award 

Soldiering On awards 2017 | Skanska | inspiration

Recipient: Simon Weston

When The Sir Galahad landing craft was bombed during the Falklands War, 48 of Simon’s comrades and crew were killed. He survived. He Suffered 46% burns and underwent more than 70 reconstructive operations. He soon turned his focus to charity work and his road to recovery saw him active in a number of highly successful ventures, including several books and documentaries. He earned an OBE in 1992 and was later awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool. Simon is now a CBE and his single-minded determination inspired a generation of service personnel – to not only serve but to accept what is – and to turn it to your advantage.

Click here to see the Award Winner’s presentation:


Soldiering On Awards proudly presented certificates of recognition to WWII veterans representing the Tri-Services and Merchant Navy:

 Air Commodore Charles Clarke OBE – Royal Air Force

 Able Seaman David Kennedy – Royal Navy

 Major John Sturgis MC – Royal Marine Commando (Present)

 Ron Quested – Merchant Navy (Present)

 Squadron Leader George “Johnny” Johnson DFM

 Flight Sergeant Jack Perry – Royal Air Force (Present)

 Major Bob Filby MC, Croix de Guerre, Legion d’Honneur, Army (Present)

WWII Veterans Standing Ovation

Click here to see the  presentation:


Entertainment for the Soldiering On Awards 2017

Fabulous performances kept the audience riveted. Our special thanks to

Mike Read, Soldiering On Awards

Mike Read

Beau Dermott, Soldiering On AwardsBeau Dermott

Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Regimental Association, Soldiering On Awards

Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Regimental Association


‘Soldiering On Awards’
24th April 2017
Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster

Many thanks to all of those who gave their support on the night!

The nominations for the 2018 Soldiering On Awards coming soon!
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