Soldiering On Awards 2011, in Support of BLESMA
The inaugural BLESMA “Soldiering On” Awards Ceremony & Dinner was held at the prestigious Savoy, London on Sunday 20 March 2011 in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester (Patrons of BLESMA), His Grace the Duke of Westminster and a wonderful array of guests including all of the senior military ranks from the three Services as well as VCDS.
Purchase Soldiering On Awards 2011 commemorative images
Gloria Hunniford and Paul Martin guided the evening perfectly through the Awards Ceremony introducing the very special people that we recognised with a Soldiering On Award.
Tom Keane hosted the Money Can’t Buy Auction helping to bring the total raised on the evening to approximately £47,000 that will be going directly to BLESMA.
It was a night of moving stories for the very special people of BLESMA who received the following awards in recognition of their achievements:
INTRODUCTION OVERVIEW VIDEO – Outlining the ideas behind the event were a team of people formed the Soldiering On Committee to honour the members and supporters of BLESMA.
FUNDRAISING ENDEAVOUR – Awarded to HQ 521 EOD Squadron – To recognise a group or individual that has inspired us all by fundraising with enthusiasm, commitment and determination to further assist in the work of those who soldier on.
SUPPORTIVE FAMILY – Awarded to Diane Dernie – To recognise an individual or family that has provided outstanding support to an injured person or persons from current conflicts.
WELFARE AWARD – VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – Awarded to Philip ‘Bob’ Monkhouse – To recognise selfless devotion to helping those who soldier on.
SPORTING ENDEAVOUR OF THE YEAR – Awarded to Ilai ‘Derek’ Derenalagi – To recognise one who has reached beyond disability to inspire us all through sporting achievement.
THE BOWMAN AWARD – Awarded to Headley Court – To recognise an individual or organisation that has given exceptional training and support to help individuals overcome grievous injuries.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE – Awarded to RCDM/Queen Elizabeth Hospital – To recognise a group, body or company from industry, the health and social care community, the Armed Services or the wider charity world which has significantly eased the road ahead for those injured in the service of our Country.
AGAINST ALL ODDS – Awarded to Mark Ormrod – To recognise the individual who sets the example for others to follow in his or her determination to overcome grievous disability.
BLESMA LIFETIME COMMITMENT – Awarded to George Gates – To recognise those who have truly soldiered on with unwavering commitment in support of BLESMA and who by their example inspired others to follow.
