Three Blesma Members have been honoured at the 2018 Soldiering On Awards for their outstanding achievements. Triathlon athlete Steve Crowley took home the award for Sporting Excellence, Andy Allen won the Inspiration award and Luke Delahunty faced the public vote to win the People’s Choice award.

“It was the first awards evening I’ve ever attended and it was an honour to be nominated let alone win,”

Steve Crowley

“I didn’t think I would win but it means other people are noticing me!” Former Royal Irish Regiment soldier Andy Allen, who lost both his legs along with his sight in an IED explosion in Afghanistan, was nominated for how he has turned his life around post injury. Not only has Andy become a member of Northern Ireland’s parliament but he has also set up his own charity, AA Veterans Support, to help veterans and their families in Northern Ireland.

“After I was injured, I could have dealt badly with the hand I had been given, but I picked myself up and carried on,” Andy said. “I kept myself busy during my recovery and now I feel rewarded when helping other people."

“This award doesn’t just recognise my achievements, it’s for everyone who has helped me since the day I was injured in Afghanistan. It’s also recognition for everyone who works so hard behind the scenes at AA Veterans Support.”

Andy Allen

Luke Delahunty was also nominated for the way in which he has overcome adversity as well as for his hard work with charities, particularly inspiring young people who find themselves in a similar situation to him. “It was surreal to win, especially because it was by a public vote – the fact that people voted for me makes it even more special,” he said of his award. Congratulations to the three winners, and to everyone who was nominated for this year’s Soldiering On Awards.