Within the walls of the historic Windsor Castle, steeped in military history and national significance, Chief of Defence People at the Ministry of Defence, Vice Admiral Phil Hally CB MBE, called for collaboration across Defence in his speech at a reception to mark the commencement of the 2024 Soldiering On Awards nominations.
Addressing the esteemed gathering of partners, supporters and previous winners, VAdm Hally underscored the Soldiering On Awards platform’s role in publicising positive stories: “I firmly believe that our Defence people are more than just uniformed personnel; they are role models for our society, and our society is enrichened by their selfless commitment.
“The Soldiering On Awards delivers this positive message to the nation and I am in no doubt that the public perception of our Defence community is heightened as a result.”
The distinguished Constable and Governor of Windsor Castle, Lt Gen (Retd) Phil Jones CB CBE DL, graciously welcomed representatives from the military, corporate sector, charities, and government to their official residence in Windsor Castle, the perfect backdrop to initiate the quest for this year’s stories of exceptional achievement within the Armed Forces community.
The Rt Hon. the Earl Howe GBE PC, Patron of the Soldiering On Awards, reaffirmed the program’s mission in its 14th year: “Soldiering On Awards remains committed to the shining a spotlight on remarkable individuals, projects and organisations that exemplify passion and unwavering commitment to progress and excellence, embodying the core values that our Armed Forces are known for. It is an unparalleled programme that reaches millions.”
This nominations event and campaign is supported by longstanding partner Landmarc. Mark Neill, Managing Director, announced the introduction of the Employee Champion Award category for 2024, in partnership with Landmarc:
“This award is the result of extensive collaboration and co-creation between Landmarc and the Soldiering On team and aims to shine a spotlight on individuals who have excelled in advocating for members of the Armed Forces community in civilian roles. We look forward to celebrating the remarkable achievements of our very first Employee Champions at this year’s awards.”
Soldiering On Awards CEO, Ren Kapur MBE, called on the gathered partners and supporters to help reveal the unsung heroes in their networks by communicating the prompt ‘Who Do You Know?’: “As a society, we find ourselves with many challenges and opportunities, which to overcome, we learn from others. Lived experiences become a powerful and, in my opinion, necessary part of that process.
“The Soldiering On Awards serves to lift the spirits, build communities and spotlight the exceptional talent around us that can and does inspire. It is together we will continue to make change for good.”
The event culminated in an enlightening tour of the castle grounds and an invitation to attend Evensong at St George’s Chapel, a festal service enriched by the beautiful singing of the choristers.
With nominations now open in twelve diverse categories, individuals are invited to submit their entries via the online form on the Soldiering On Awards website soldieringon.org by 2nd April 2024.