This October, we mark 25 years since British Armed Forces first deployed to Afghanistan. As the Army’s national charity, we recognise their service, remember the sacrifice, and reflect on the lasting legacy of a campaign that affected thousands of military personnel, and their families, in the UK and overseas.
As part of our commemorative activity marking this important anniversary, the ABF has launched the 457 Challenge.
This is a bespoke fitness challenge designed to test participants of all abilities while bringing people together in remembrance.
This event honours the sacrifice of the 457 UK Armed Forces personnel who lost their lives during operations in Afghanistan, as well as all those who returned home with life-changing injuries and lasting challenges. During the campaign, and ever since, the Army Benevolent Fund has supported members of the Army family affected by loss, injury, illness and hardship.
Although military operations have ended, the impact of Afghanistan continues to be felt by veterans and families today, and the ABF is and will remain steadfast in its support for all of those who are in hardship or need.
What is involved in the 457 Challenge:
- The 457 Challenge is a functional‑fitness workout built around the numbers 4, 5, 7 as well as 2,188, the number of wounded personnel.
- Participants can take part individually or as a team, whether as part of a gym, workplace, sports club, Army unit or group of friends.
- The workout itself takes around 45–70 minutes and you can complete it at any time during the month of October 2026.
- The workout is inclusive and can be tailored to different abilities and fitness levels for veterans, serving personnel and civilians.
- Registration costs £15. This includes a workout programme and a donation.
- There are also bonus prizes available for the first 250 people to raise £50 or more.
By taking part, supporters will not only pay tribute to those affected but also help raise vital funds to ensure the ABF can continue supporting members of the Army family facing hardship and need, including those living with the long-term effects of service in Afghanistan.
The 457 Challenge was created by Tilly Lambert-Lee, Regional Director, ABF South West. As an Army spouse, Tilly experienced two Afghanistan deployments from home and witnessed first-hand the impact it had on serving personnel and their families.
Tilly said:
“When creating this challenge, it felt important to recognise the sacrifice of so many. I wanted to include a hidden nod to those who were injured and those who continue to live with the impact of that time. The 457 Challenge reflects all of that while encouraging people to get moving and become part of a supportive, positive community. On top of that, it gives back to the charity at the heart of it.”
To find out more about the 457 Challenge and sign up, visit our website here.