THE Veterans Orthopaedic Service, which is based at the Orthopaedic Hospital, has been named as a finalist in the Soldiering On Awards.

The Soldiering On Awards are highly coveted in the Armed Forces community. They recognise inspirational individuals and teams, who highlight the outstanding achievements of current and former service personnel and their families, as well as those who care for and support them.

The Veterans Orthopaedic Service, led by Lieutenant Colonel Carl Meyer, a Consultant Military Orthopaedic Surgeon, has been named as a finalist in the Healthcare and Rehabilitation Award category, after being nominated by Tom Bennett-Britton for the high standard of care provided to his father-in-law, Major Igor Obrastsoff-Rutinsky, a former Paratrooper.

Mr Bennett-Britton said: “I know of the Veterans Orthopaedic Service, as my father-in-law was treated by Lt Col Carl Meyer and his team earlier this year. The service that he received was truly first-class.

“Igor is one of thousands of veterans that this service has now helped.

“As part of this service, the hospital has recently launched a £1.5 million fundraising campaign to build the UK’s first dedicated Veterans’ Orthopaedic Centre, and I believe the service winning a Soldiering On Award would provide due recognition to the fabulous work it does, where they truly transform the lives of our veterans.”

The NHS-led service is open to those who have served with the UK military, including National Service, and treats arthritic lower limb problems, especially those requiring hip and knee replacements.

Lieutenant Colonel Carl Meyer said he feels “thrilled” that the service is in the running for a national award.

He said: “I’m thrilled that our Veterans Orthopaedic Service has been nominated for a prestigious Soldiering On Award. This is wonderful recognition for the work that we do here at RJAH in caring for servicemen and women, who have left the Forces.

“There aren't many professions where going to work places you at risk of dying or being severely injured. I feel this level of commitment requires recognition.”

All of the finalists will be invited to a special private reception at the House of Lords on 13 February, hosted by Lord Dannatt and attended by Awards Patron, the Rt Hon Earl Howe PC and a number of special guests, ahead of the winners being announced at a prestigious black-tie event at the Westminster Park Plaza on Friday, April 5.

General the Lord Richard Dannatt, awards president and head of the judging panel, said: “The 2019 Soldiering On Awards finalists represent the wonderful work of the Armed Forces and all that they stand for.

“The Awards recognise those who have gone above and beyond what was required, time and again, an ethos learned for many of our finalists in the service of their country. Those who support the military community not only benefit them, but our wider society too.