Leaders from Defence, Government, Charities and Industry gathered at the Palace of Westminster to recognise 36 outstanding finalists and launch the 2026 public vote.
The 36 finalists of The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On 2026 were celebrated at a special reception at the House of Lords on Wednesday 15 July.
Hosted by the Awards’ Patron, Major General the Right Honourable the Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton TD VR PC, the reception brought together finalists and their nominators with senior representatives from Defence, government, industry, charities and the wider Armed Forces community.
Held at the Palace of Westminster, the event recognised the exceptional individuals, organisations and initiatives making a positive difference across society through their connection to the Armed Forces community.
The finalists’ achievements span healthcare, education and training, employment, enterprise, community support and animal partnerships. Collectively, their stories demonstrate the enduring impact of service, resilience, innovation and collaboration, and the important role the Armed Forces community continues to play in strengthening society.
Guests were addressed by the Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, and Major General Justin Stenhouse CBE DSO, who congratulated the finalists and highlighted the importance of recognising and the vast talent from the Armed Forces community, serving, served and their families.
The reception was supported by energy and services company Centrica, whose Ex-Forces Pathway helps former military personnel bring their skills and experience into careers supporting the transition to Net Zero.
Chris O’Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica, spoke about the mutual benefits created when employers recognise military talent and build meaningful relationships with the Armed Forces community.
During the evening, broadcaster and long-standing Awards host Jeremy Vine officially opened the public vote for two of this year’s award categories: the Animal Partnership Award and the Inspiration Award.
Members of the public can vote at www.soldieringon.org until 23:59 on Sunday 2 August 2026.
Now in their 16th year, The Armed Forces Community Awards celebrate outstanding achievement, innovation and dedication across 12 award categories.
The 2026 theme, Connecting Society, reflects the important role of the Armed Forces community in bringing people together, creating opportunities and building greater understanding across communities, sectors and generations.
This year’s finalists were selected from an exceptional field of nominations by an independent judging panel led by Co-Chairs Lieutenant General Richard Nugee CB CVO CBE and Debra Allcock Tyler.
The winners will be announced at the Awards Night on Thursday 17 September 2026 at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.
Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey MP said:
“The Armed Forces community continues to make an extraordinary contribution to our nation, both during and after service. These finalists represent the very best of that contribution through their dedication, innovation and commitment to helping others.
“This year’s finalists embody the spirit of Connecting Society, building relationships, creating opportunities and strengthening communities across the United Kingdom. I congratulate each and every one of them and wish them the best of luck for the awards night in September.”
Major General Justin Stenhouse CBE DSO said:
“What makes these awards so powerful is their reach, recognising contribution right across the defence community and beyond, from individuals and families to businesses and communities. The stronger the bond between defence and the society we serve, the stronger we all become.
“All of the finalists are genuinely inspiring, capturing courage, kindness, companionship and determination. Thank you for what you have done, what you represent, the example you set, and the inspiration you provide.”
Major General the Right Honourable the Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton TD VR PC, Patron of The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On, said:
“For more than 15 years, these Awards have shone a light on the exceptional people, projects and organisations that strengthen the Armed Forces community.
“The 2026 finalists exemplify dedication, innovation and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others. Through their efforts, they are helping to connect communities, create opportunities and demonstrate the lasting value of service to society.”
Laura Blair, Head of Centrica’s Ex-Forces Pathway, said:
“We are delighted, for the fourth year running, to support The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On Finalists’ Reception at the House of Lords and to join others in celebrating achievement across the Armed Forces community.
“The finalists have demonstrated determination, leadership and an unwavering commitment to making a positive difference. We are proud to recognise their contribution to society and the nation.”
Ren Kapur MBE, CEO of The Armed Forces Community Awards, said:
“I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who makes these awards possible, from nominators, judges, finalists, and partners.
“Our finalists reflect the extraordinary breadth of the Armed Forces community, from innovation and enterprise to overcoming adversity, supporting others, and creating lasting change.
When we speak about a whole-society approach, we need look no further than this remarkable group. Together, they are strengthening communities, improving lives, and making a meaningful contribution to our nation. Congratulations to you all.”
The full list of 2026 finalists is available at www.soldieringon.org.
