2020
The Blesma News for 2020 covering news, activities and fundraising events for limbless veterans.
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Corie Mapp wins Para-bobsleigh World Cup gold in St Moritz
26 February 2020
Blesma Member Corie Mapp has his sights set on the prestigious para-bobsleigh title after an amazing start to the season. The former Household Cavalry officer is going for Gold at the World Championships in March, after already bagging many first place and silver medals at tournaments this year. He has also become the first Briton to win a European Para-Bobsleigh title. Corie was deployed to Afghanistan attached to the Vikings. In 2010, while on patrol a sergeant was shot. The troops ahead were pinned down by the Taliban and wanted someone to
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Blesma Member Troy Conner uses his story to inspire others
25 February 2020
Troy Conner was 31 years old when the vehicle he was travelling in detonated an improvised explosive device. His three colleagues were killed and he was left with numerous injuries including a traumatic brain injury. Ten years on, he has found the strength to share his story of adversity and resilience to inspire others. Upon being injured, he was taken to hospital where doctors operated on him to reduce the pressure on his brain. He was then brought back to a military hospital in Birmingham, where he remained in an induced coma for five weeks. That was in 200
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Ken and Vera celebrate 75 years of marriage
24 February 2020
In January, Blesma Member Kenneth Foster (97) and his wife Vera (92) celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary with a reception hosted by Sheffield’s Lord Mayor, in his Parlour at the Sheffield Town Hall. Blesma organised the event to commemorate the loving couple’s diamond wedding anniversary. The occasion was made particularly poignant as the couple were unable to have a honeymoon following their wedding, due to the events of WW2. In attendance was Capt. Malcolm Birkett MBE of Burma Coy, who presented a Regimental cap badge plaque to acknowledge K
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Veterans Railcard
23 February 2020
A new railcard which will provide discounts for military veterans is set to launch later this year. Serving members of the Armed Forces and their spouses may be eligible for an HM Forces Railcard, which offers up to 30 per cent off rail travel across England, Scotland and Wales. The railcard costs £21 per year and includes savings on most first and standard fares, including off-peak travel cards in London. Cards are valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "This railcard will
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