Our charity is thrilled that former Sergeant Rick Clement has won the Inspiration Award at the Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On 2026.
Earlier this year, our charity nominated Rick for the award in recognition of the determination, resilience and positivity he has shown since sustaining life-changing injuries in Afghanistan in 2010. Despite losing both legs and suffering severe injuries, Rick regained his independence and has gone on to support others through his work with charities and the disabled veteran community.
The 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 continue leading an active life.
Today, Rick continues to make a remarkable contribution to both the Armed Forces and wider community. He is Secretary of Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association, where he works to improve accessibility for disabled supporters, and actively supports a number of military charities.
Rick has also completed numerous fundraising and endurance challenges, including open-water swimming, abseiling and canoeing 97 miles around the Cheshire Ring canal system. Most recently, he completed a 5km swim in Lake Windermere.
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.”
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.”
Read more about Rick’s story here.
The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On are organised each year by X-Forces Enterprise (XFE), a charity the ABF has helped fund, to recognise the achievements of members of the Armed Forces community and those who support them.