Page 80 - Bugle Autumn 2023

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Many followers of the AARP will know that much effort is put into encouraging Riflemen to stay connected and set realistic goals in the process. There are countless examples of Riflemen doing just that, but two extraordinary Rifleman have impressed.
Luke Nevin has truly flourished with the stewardship of Danny McCrieth.
In just over a year he has gone from troubled veteran to local hero. Utilising his passion for boxing and fitness, he
is now the proud owner of a fantastic sports facility in Liverpool that is aimed at connecting veterans through fitness and wellbeing training. Not to be outdone, good friend Paul Jacobs ran the London Marathon and climbed to Everest Base camp to heighten the friendly rivalry between the two AARP trained volunteers. Fortunately for Paul Jacobs, he has been taken under the wing of Polar Expedition legend Lou Rudd.
With over 260 volunteers, and 150 beneficiaries, the AARP is the most remarkable veteran programme of modern times. But, success brings more work and that demands more support. We remain desperate for more people
to attend the 2 day training packages which are run 6 times a year.
80 RIFLES The Bugle
SILVERSTONE 23 GALA
SILVERSTONE 23 was the first time the Always A Rifleman Programme had attempted to gather beneficiaries and volunteers in one space. Notwithstanding the need to raise vital funds used to help Riflemen out of crisis, the event was designed to connect and
unify The Rifles family under one roof and recognise the phenomenal achievements of our volunteers around the UK.
Major General Rob Tompson CBE DSO presented awards to five volunteers for their outstanding contribution to the programme. Colin Cranswick, Sarah Anderson, Leonie Case, Adam Nash and Charlie Chensee were all recognised for their continued commitment
the success of the event was tangible
and service to the regiment.
With the iconic circuit awash with
campaign medals and cocktail dresses, the success of the event was tangible. But what the 250 guests would not have been privy
to was the outcome of the generosity of our sponsors. Andrew Michael, Mo Alin and Kev Diggle funded transport, accommodation and tickets which paved the way for struggling Riflemen to attend and stay connected. Along with a few other individuals who gifted event packages anonymously, this support proved invaluable. As a direct result of SILVERSTONE 23 the programme mounted a lifesaving intervention.