Blesma Members Paul Findlay and Mark Ormrod have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, becoming MBEs.

Former Royal Marine Mark has been acknowledged for his service to the Royal Marines and Veterans, while former Royal Signal Corporal Paul is being celebrated for his charitable services, especially during the pandemic.

The list is usually published in June inline with the Queen’s official birthday, but it was postponed so that individuals who played crucial roles in the first months of the coronavirus outbreak could be added.

Since being injured in 2009, Paul had dedicated his time to supporting various Military charities, raising over £700,000. During the pandemic, Paul stepped up his charitable work by volunteering with a number of Essex health and welfare services, Op RE: ACT and his local Round Table to collect and donate food.

Paul, who is a Blesma Support Officer and below-knee amputee, said: “I only found out two months ago. It was a real shock when the letter arrived. My military career has given me the knowledge, ability, and drive to help, so it came naturally to use those skills to help my local community during the pandemic. I’m immensely proud.”

Mark told his 36,000+ Instagram followers “It’s been a hell of a ride so far and I feel confident now that I’m on the right track and helping to make a difference. Once A Marine, Always A Marine...”