Millbank have marked the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings by sponsoring a local veteran representing the British Army in the Warrior Games in Florida this June.
Millbank made a £250 donation towards equipment for local British Army veteran Richie O’Connell, who has qualified to compete in archery and shooting at the US Department of Defence’s Warrior Games.
The Warrior Games take place on June 21 – 30th 2019, and Richie will fly out to Tampa with the British Army team on 18th June.
Millbank Managing Director David Hopley invited British Army veteran Richie O’Connell to be the first guest to our newly refurbished Millbank Garden of Tranquillity
Honouring Our Heroes
Last week we looked back on the sacrifices made on the Normandy beaches on D-Day 75 years ago. It’s important we pay respect to and support those who have made sacrifices for our freedoms in the modern day.
Richie O’Connell served for 12 years in the British Army in the 1st Battalion of the Mercian (Cheshire) Regiment, completing many tours overseas until he was unfortunately injured in Afghanistan.
While recovering from his injuries and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Richie discovered an interest in archery and has followed this passion to become a Level 2 Archery coach with Archery GB.
Richie finds particular satisfaction in helping others adapt to the sport for their own disabilities, which makes a huge difference to their lives.
Now Richie is proud to represent the British Army at the Warrior Games this year in Tampa, Florida in archery and shooting.
Aiming for Gold in the Sunshine State
The Warrior Games, hosted by the US Department of Defence (DoD) was founded in 2010 to introduce injured, wounded and ill service members to competitive sports. The event, which inspired Prince Harry to found the Invictus Games, will see around 300 veterans from forces around the world competing in sports ranging from cycling and swimming through to wheelchair rugby and powerlifting.
Richie will be one of 20 British Forces representatives at the Games, supported by Help For Heroes.
Millbank – a signee of the Armed Forces Covenant – is proud to support Richie’s efforts by contributing £250 towards vital new equipment and gear for his recurve bow, and are proud to receive a commemorative shirt to be displayed in our office.
Best of luck Richie from all of us at Millbank – we’ll be following your progress and cheering you on all the way!
