I got involved in the beginnings of what became the Soldiering on Through Life trust when one of my friends and now a trustee, Julie Calder asked me if I would help out at a charity auction night raising money for BLESMA. I read up on the charity and was blown away by what they achieve and how they help our servicemen throughout their lives to overcome their injuries and to move on and inspire others to still make something of their lives. So I agreed and helped out on the night at Peter Stringfellows selling raffle tickets and helping with the auction. It was such amazing night, I was hooked. The generosity of people left me dumbfounded.

When Wing Commander Lambert told me about their plan to create an award ceremony, I was more than keen to support him in his quest to recognise not only injured soldiers that go above and beyond against all odds, but to also recognise the families and charities that also go that extra mile.

It was hectic as the 1st award ceremony in The Savoy loomed upon us; however, it was also exciting and rewarding to be involved with what we were achieving. Little did we know just how amazing a night it would be and how humbled we would all feel to be in the presence of those injured Servicemen and supporters that have done wonders with their lives in the aftermath of such tragedies such as Mark Ormrod and Diane Dernie (Ben Parkinson’s Mum).

This was just the beginning now, with the support of many incredible sponsors, the Soldiering on Through Life Trust is a charity in its own right with many fundraising events throughout the year. I love attending and helping out to make it a special night for everyone and raising money for this amazing charity. We make a difference to other people’s lives by making them feel special and appreciated and I can’t think of a more rewarding cause.

All the volunteers give so much of their precious time to make this organisation such a success. I was over the moon to see that Wing Commander Lambert’s work for the RAF and supporting all military charities being recognised with an MBE in the New Years Honours list. I’m incredibly proud to be involved and associated with an organisation that makes such a difference to others by supporting all Military charities and recognising truly inspirational people.

Flight Sergeant Gill Malam (SOTLT Supporter/Volunteer)