The Armed Forces community came together on August 28th to officially launch the nominations for the 10th annual Soldiering On Awards, with an event asking the question: Who do you know?

What a fabulous afternoon!

The nominations process has been open since Armed Forces Day, and this event gave attendees the opportunity to gain valuable information on the nominations and judging process in order to write a glowing nomination for a person or organisation that deserves recognition. People were able to meet previous winners, finalists and nominators to exchange stories, renew old acquaintances and make new friends!

The event was hosted by The Royal British Legion and supported by the 2020 award sponsors.  With supporters coming from across the whole community and some distant places around the UK, we would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along.

We were particularly honoured and thrilled to be joined by the newly appointed Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer MP, a keen supporter of the Soldiering On Awards. He spoke of his commitment to the Armed Forces Community, the importance of recognition and the simple act of saying “Thank you” to those who serve their communities:

“Every year the Soldiering on Awards mark the extraordinary stories and achievements which are taking place across the armed forces community. Whether it’s ex-forces personnel starting a new business, or the important contribution military charities make, these awards always show off the best of Britain.”

Nominators were able to gain useful hints and tips from members of the independent judging panel and previous nominators about how to prepare a nomination.  If you need help with a nomination please contact jan.taylor@x-forces.com and she will be happy to offer advice.

Both Ren Kapur MBE and Charles Byrne, Director General of The Royal British Legion spoke of the importance the Awards have in the military community and what they mean to people.

Charles Byrne said:

“The Royal British Legion is a huge advocate and supporter of the Soldiering On Awards. The UK’s military personnel and their families are some of the most dedicated in society, and it is wonderful for people to have this opportunity to recognise their outstanding achievements. The awards do a great job of highlighting all the individuals and organisations that deliver support to the Armed Forces community, whatever their contributing role. Together we can ensure that this year’s event is a tremendous celebration of those who have served and those who support them.”

Ren Kapur MBE said:

“The Soldiering On Awards highlight how the can-do attitude and spirit of Armed Forces community members continues to contribute to society whether you have served or are part of the services community. These remarkable role models deserve all the recognition and are an inspiration to society at large. In addition, all award-winners will receive tailored support through the XFE “3:6:12” programme for the next stage of their journeys, including promotion, knowledge exchange or connections. Who do you know who deserves to be recognised?”

Don’t forget – nominations are open until 30th September so you have a whole month to submit your nomination to say thanks to an individual, team or organisation for the amazing things that they do for the wider Armed Forces Community.

And, of course – if your nominee reaches the Finalists stage, you’ll be invited to the Finalists’ Reception at The House of Lords in Feb 2020! How amazing would that be?!!

See the categories and start your nomination here:

You can see all previous winners on our website by clicking on the Awards tab then selecting “previous awards” from the drop-down menu and choosing a year.

Click here to read the Who do you know? Leaflet

It will be fantastic if you can help to spread the word by sharing this blog and making sure as many of your friends, colleagues and the wider community as possible have the opportunity to nominate whoever they feel deserves an Award!

You’ll find us on all social media channels; these tags may help when you’re sharing info: #SOA2020 #soldieringonawards