Soldiering On Awards 2025 Finalists Saluted at the House of Lords

In a poignant and inspiring evening overlooking the Thames, the Soldiering On Awards 2025 Finalists’ Reception took place yesterday in the Cholmondeley Room and Terrace at the iconic Palace of Westminster, House of Lords...

The prestigious setting provided a fitting backdrop to celebrate the extraordinary individuals and organisations who have been shortlisted for this year’s awards, which honour achievement, resilience, and dedication within the Armed Forces community. 

Hosted by Rt Hon Earl Howe GBE PC, Patron of the Soldiering On Awards, the glittering reception welcomed 160 guests, including finalists across 12 categories selected by Independent and Category Judging Panels. 

Now, two exciting and hugely popular categories have opened for public voting: 

● Animal Partnership Award, in partnership with Pets at Home 

● Inspiration Award, in partnership with NatWest 

The public is invited to cast their votes by Sunday 03 August 2025 to support their favourite finalists. Click here to vote. 

The reception was hosted by broadcaster and author Jeremy Vine, who brought warmth, gravitas, and heartfelt admiration to proceedings. Addressing the audience of finalists, nominators, judges, partners, and distinguished guests, Jeremy spoke with admiration of the unique stories of bravery, selflessness, and community spirit that define the Soldiering On Awards and the wider military family. 

The event was further honoured by remarks from Minister for Veterans and People, Rt Hon Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP, who delivered a passionate speech recognising the vital contributions of the Armed Forces community, not just in uniform, but in civilian life too. He paid tribute to the finalists for their remarkable post-service journeys and the positive impact they continue to make across society. 

The Minister said: 

“The 2025 Soldiering On Awards finalists embody the very best of our Armed Forces community, and I’m delighted to congratulate them all on their well-deserved recognition. Their selfless commitment goes beyond duty, demonstrating what it truly means to serve your country, and this government is committed to renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve” 

Ren Kapur MBE, Founder and CEO of X-Forces Enterprise and the driving force behind the Soldiering On Awards, also addressed the event. She spoke about the importance of recognition, community, and the power of shared stories to inspire and uplift. Ren thanked the nominators for ensuring these stories are told, the judges who generously donate their time and expertise, and the supporters whose commitment makes the awards possible. 

Ren Kapur MBE commented: 

“For 15 years, the Awards have recognised the strength and heart of the Armed Forces community and in so doing we have been able to share so many remarkable stories of endeavour and achievement. This storytelling is the heart and soul of the Soldiering On Awards and serves as a huge inspiration to both the military family and British society itself. 

"Thank you to all of our generous partners, not least Centrica for supporting the Finalists Reception. Congratulations once again to our incredible finalists!” 

Guests mingled on the riverside terrace, with the evening sunshine framing conversations and connections. For many of the finalists, it was a rare chance to pause and reflect on how far they had come, supported by friends, families, and the wider Armed Forces network. 

As the 2025 Awards Night approaches, the reception served as a timely reminder that behind every nomination lies a story of dedication, determination, and human spirit. These are not just awards, they are a celebration of those who exemplify the very best of the military community and of Britain itself. 

The Soldiering On Awards Night will take place on 22 October this year, where the winners across 12 categories will be revealed. We look forward to continuing to elevate the extraordinary people, stories and impact over the coming weeks.  

Meet the Finalists here.