Veteran Community Recognized in King’s Official Birthday Honours List 2023

Veterans and those dedicated to the veteran community for many years have been celebrated.

The list features numerous individuals who have fundraised for veteran causes, tirelessly campaigned for military charities, and volunteered to support those who have served.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP, stated:

Upon joining the military, you commit to fight for King and country.

It is profoundly significant that those who have served, or assisted veterans, have been acknowledged today in the Birthday Honours.

The variety of contributions, from charity efforts to enhancing veterans’ mental health, is inspiring, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all recipients.

Major (Rtd) Sally Orange has been awarded an MBE for her efforts to diminish the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Over a span of 30 years, Sally has completed more than 70 marathons and raised funds for over 40 charities, primarily military-focused, amassing over half a million pounds in donations.

This year’s list recognizes volunteer efforts, including an MBE for Thomas Hall for his initiative in connecting charity and healthcare systems to develop a coherent care pathway in Wales. He has established a series of health discussion groups to share best practices and advice on veteran care, enhancing the understanding of their healthcare requirements.

Margaret Bracey has been awarded a BEM to honor her unwavering dedication to the Royal British Legion as one of their longest-serving poppy collectors. Margaret sold her first poppy for a penny in 1945 at age 12 and continues to volunteer for the charity nearly eight decades later.

Anthony Cooper has received an MBE for his voluntary services to veterans. After sustaining severe injuries from an IED, including the loss of both legs, many fingers, and an eye, Anthony became an ambassador for the Royal British Legion, tirelessly sharing his story and raising thousands of pounds for veterans’ charities.

This year’s list also highlights charitable services to veterans, with Christine Evans receiving a British Empire Medal for her creative fundraising initiatives, such as organizing a ‘Red Ball’ fundraiser to commemorate the Centenary of the First World War. To date, Christine’s Poppy Appeals have generated over £300,000 for military charities.

After a 25-year military career, Albert Duffus is being honored with a BEM for his efforts in organizing fundraising events for various veterans’ charities and ensuring the legacy of the Queen’s Own Highlanders regiment is remembered.

Support for veterans of the war in Ukraine is also recognized in this year’s list, with Major General Nicholas John Caplin receiving a CBE for his relentless efforts to enhance Ukrainian capabilities in providing sight loss services for veterans. He is also acknowledged for forming the Disabled Veterans Charity Partnership, which promotes collaboration among key military charities.

Kenneth Keld from North Yorkshire is awarded an MBE for his relentless work to secure recognition for Korean veterans for their service.