Soldiering On Awards open for nominations in special 15th anniversary year

The Soldiering On Awards, which shine a spotlight the remarkable accomplishments of the Armed Forces community, are now open for nominations.

This milestone year marks the 15th anniversary of the awards, with 12 diverse categories recognising exceptional individuals, businesses, and organisations connected to the military world.

The nominations are open from now until 30 March.

• Ex-Gurkha amputee wants others to climb their own mountains as he wins award
• Military chef turned chocolatier wants veterans to join his Willy Wonka-style chocolate shop
• Female team of Royal Navy sailors joined by dolphins on World's Toughest Row

Highlighting inspiring stories

Lieutenant Colonel Ren Kapur, chief executive of X-Forces Enterprise and a driving force behind the awards, shared his insights on past winners during a recent BFBS radio interview.

Among them is Phil Jones, fondly known as the Chocolate Soldier, who won the Business Start-Up Award after transitioning from military service to launching a successful chocolate business.

His journey began with a transition programme, where he met his business partner, and has since flourished with continued support and mentorship.

Another notable winner, Hari Budha Magar, won the Inspiration Award for exemplifying resilience and determination.

As a double amputee, he has conquered many mountain peaks raising significant funds for charitable causes.

Lt Col Kapur highlighted how winners like Hari inspire others to overcome challenges and "still soldier on".

The importance of nominations

Nominations play a vital role in the Soldiering On Awards, especially as, Lt Col Kapur points out, military personnel are often reluctant to highlight their own achievements.

Nominators are also invited to the Soldiering On Awards night at the House of Lords in July, where they can share a special evening with their nominee among the 36 finalists.

"Many inspirational individuals, teams and organisations remain unrecognised, so I encourage everyone to ask themselves: Who do you know?" said the Rt Hon Earl Howe GBE PC, patron of the Soldiering On Awards.

"By nominating someone, could you uncover one of these unsung heroes and thereby ensure their story is celebrated?"

A diverse range of categories

From Family Values and Animal Partnership to Defence Inclusivity, Inspiration, and Business, there is a category for every story of extraordinary achievement.

The Animal Partnership Award is a staple category and one of the event's favourites, which recognises the invaluable support animals provide to service members.

From improving mental health to aiding rehabilitation, these partnerships have made a tangible difference.

"We cannot underestimate how much it’s helped people with their wellbeing, their rehabilitation, and also keeping us safe," Lt Col Kapur noted.

Fifteenth anniversary

As the Soldiering On Awards celebrate their 15th year, Lt Col Kapur remains deeply motivated by the event's impact.

"It's in its fifteenth year. And what keeps me excited simply is seeing so many great people from our Armed Forces getting together, being able to say what they've been able to achieve.

"And actually, you know what? Give each other a pat on the back as a venue at a night where we're all in it together."

Nominations for the Soldiering On Awards can be made here.