Fleetwood war veteran Rick Clements honoured with deserving Inspiration Award at the 2026 Soldiering On Awards
“Battle injuries are not the end of the world; it is still possible to have a normal, rewarding, purposeful and fulfilling life.”
Veteran Rick Clement has won the Inspiration Award at the 2026 Soldiering On Awards, recognising the courage, resilience and determination he has shown since sustaining life-changing injuries while serving in Afghanistan.
Rick, from Fleetwood, was presented with the award at the Soldiering On Awards ceremony in London on Thursday, where he was named winner of the Inspiration Award category.
Rick, a former Sergeant with 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, sustained life-changing injuries during a tour of Afghanistan in 2010. Since then, he has regained his independence and dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans, military charities, and his local community.
Brigadier (Ret'd) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer, Army Benevolent Fund, said: “We are incredibly proud of Rick and all that he has achieved since his injury. His courage, determination and commitment to helping others are truly inspiring. Winning the Inspiration Award is thoroughly deserved recognition, and we send Rick our warmest congratulations and best wishes.”
Today, Rick is Secretary of Manchester United Disabled Supporters' Association and actively supports a number of military charities. His determination during recovery and commitment to helping others have earned him enormous respect within both the Armed Forces community and his hometown of Fleetwood.
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The Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) supported Rick during his recovery, providing grants towards adaptations to his home and a specialist mountain trike wheelchair, helping him regain access to the outdoors and maintain an active lifestyle.
Reflecting on his journey, Rick said: “Battle injuries are not the end of the world; it is still possible to have a normal, rewarding, purposeful and fulfilling life.”